~~~~~~~~~ ~
K    v //                7777




THE
Court Circles of the Republic,
OR THE
BEAUTIES AND CELEBRITIES
OF THE NATION;
ILLUSTRATING LIFE AND SOCIETY UNDER EIGHTEEN PRESIDENTS;
DESCRIBING THE SOCIAL FEATURES OF THE SUCCESSIVE
ADMINISTRATIONS FROM
WASHINGTON TO GRANT;
THE DRAWING-ROO2M CIRCLES; THE PROMINENT STATESMEN AND LEADING
LADIES; THE BRILLIANT BELLES AND DISTINGUISHED VISITORS;
THE PRINCIPAL ENTERTAINMENTS; FASHIONABLE STYLES
OF DRESS; MANNERS; ETIQUETTE; ANECDOTES;
INCIDENTS; ETC.; ETC.
Illustrated with Original Portraits, splendidly Engraved on Steel.
BY MRS. E. F. ELLET,
AUTHOR OF "THE WOMEN OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION;" " THE QUEENS OF
A MERICAN SOCIETY," ETC., ETC.
WITH SKETCHES
BY MRS. R. E. MACK.
SOLD BY SUBSCRIPTION ONLY.
HARTFORD PUBLISHING CO., HARTFORD, CONN.
J. D. DENISON, NEW YORK; J. A. STODDARD & CO., CHICAGO, ILL..
GEO. P. IIAWKES & CO., BOSTON, MASS.
1 869.




Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1869, by
THE HARTFORD PUBLISHING COMPANY,
In the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the United States for
District of Connecticut.
ELECTROTYPED BY SAMUEL BOWLES AND CO.,
SPRINGFIELD, MASS.




TO
MRs. LEVI WOODBURY,
WHOSE INFLUENCE IN THE COURT CIRCLES HAS EVER BEEN SO
GRACIOUS, REFINING, AND BENEFICENT,
AND WHOSE BEAUTIFUL
HOM\IE LIFE
IS A BLESSING TO ALL WHO KNOW HER,
THIS VOLUME
~a  Xtt;1Ytugt~ BWX fertianwtelH  Xearr;SvX




LIST OF ILLYUSTRATIONS.
(ENGRAVED EXPRESSLY FOR THIS WORK.)
PAGE.
1 MRS. WM. SPRAGUE,  (FRONTISPIECE.)
2 MRS. ALEX. W. RANDALL,............. 51
3 MRS. E. F. ELLET,...........  91
4 MRS. WINTHROP G. RAY.............  119
5 MRS. MYRA CLARK GAINES,...........  167
6 MRS. TULEY,..................  221
7 MRS. J. T. THOMAS,...........  267
8 MRS. ROBERT TYLER,...............         323
9 MRS. JOHN TYLER,..............   365
10 MRs. JOHN JAY,.................   419
11 MRS. ABIGAIL FILLMORE,........  443
12 MRS. HENRY J. BUTTERFIELD,...........    461
13 MIss ELLEN WOODBURY,..............  497
14 ROSA VERTNER JEFFREY,........... 617
15 HoN. F. CARROLL BREWSTER.........    541
16 MRS. ULYSSES S. GRANT,.............  567




PREFACE.
LORD NAPIER remarked to a distinguished lady in Washington, that a book descriptive of Society in the National Capital ought to be written; and that a faithful record would
give a better idea of the spirit and character of the period
than any history.  Except of the earliest " Republican
Court," no attempt has been made to portray the social
character of any administration. In this effort to supply a
lamented defect, the necessary descriptions and sketches have
been condensed as much as possible, and no memoirs have
been included of men whose biographies have been elsewhere
given to the public. The aim has been to exhibit statesmen,
leading ladies, etc., in their drawing-room aspect, with only
notices sufficient to illustrate their appearance and influence
at special times.  Thus mention is made repeatedly of the
same persons under different administrations.
Imperfect as a brief survey must necessarily be, it will be
found that a fair idea of an administration can be gained by
a view of its fashionable life and every-day social habits. A
great difference will be perceived in the terms of the Presidents, traceable in some degree to the influence of the Execu



iv                    PREFACE.
tive, but far more to those who surrounded him, and most of
all to the ladies who ruled in the fashionable coteries, and
gave the laws in assemblages, dress, and entertainments.
The attention bestowed on these last may seem disproportionate to those who do not estimate their effect; those who
remember the large share they occupy in the delineation of
any period, will not charge the author with a frivolous taste
in dwelling on them.
So vast a variety of sources of information have been consulted for this work, that a list of them would be tedious;
-and it will no doubt be more agreeable to the reader to be
spared the enumeration.  Letters and journals of the time
have been especially used. In some cases access has been
had to valuable family papers, throwing light on the subject
illustrated.
The use of the term " Court-Circles," can hardly be censured, as it conveys exactly the meaning intended-the circles surrounding the President, and most conspicuous in the
capital-and no other expression could be found to answer so
well.




CONTENTS.
I.  WASHINGTON'S ADMINISTRATION.
PAGE.
Establishment of the First Presidential Court- Imposing Spectacle
of the Inauguration-Brilliant Festivities in Honor of it-Arrival
of Mrs. Washington and Mrs. Robert Morris-First Levee-The
President's Equipage-Prominent Ladies and Statesmen-Dress
of the President at his Official Receptions-Style of Ordinary
Ones-Mrs. Izard-Mrs. Knox-Alexander Hamilton — Robert
Morris-Gouverneur Morris-Mrs. Burr-Attorneys and Divines
in New York-Edmund Randolph-John Jay-Jefferson, Secretary of State-Charles Carroll of Maryland-The Misses White
-Party at Mr. White's-The Best Dressed Gentleman-New
Year's Calls-The President drawn by Six Horses to Federal
Hall-Death of Franklin —Removal of the Capital from New
York to Philadelphia-House assigned to the President-Brilliant Society-Mrs. Bingham and other Leaders of the TonConspicuous Men of the Period-Foreign Visitors of exalted
Rank-The Farewell Levee-Deportment in the Drawing-room
a reflex of Temper in the Cabinet and Congress,.            15
II.  JOHN  ADAMS' ADMINISTRATION.
Mrs. Adams' Description of Her Philadelphia Residence-A Presidential Drawing-room-Mr. Adams at a Dinner at Mr. Bingham's
-A SingularIncident-The Inauguration-Departure of General
and Mrs. Washington-Character of Mrs. Adams-Presiding in
the Executive iMansion-Gayeties of the City-Routs and Tea
and Cards-Gambling customary at Parties-An honored Visitor
in 5Mrs. Adams' Circle-Removal of the Capital to Washington —
Descriptions of the'" Wilderness City" -Mrs. Adams' Lively
Picture-Inconveniences and Privations-Marcia Burns a noted
Belle —Married to J. P. Van Ness-Samuel Dexter-Mrs. Adams
in after Life,.................. 42




Vi                       CONTENTS.
III.  JEFFERSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
PAGE.
The two great Parties-The Widow Skelton-The Musical Courtship-The  Bridal Festivities-The  Snow-storm- Jefferson's
Equipage-Fashions in Dress-The Inauguration-Absence of
Court Ceremony-Vain Protest of Ladies against the abolition
of Levees-Social Etiquette-Complaint of the British Minister
of uncivil Treatment-Tom Moore's Indignation and Abuse of
Americans-Burr's Treason-The President's Courtesy-The
old Man at the Ferry —The Kentuckian won over-Josiah
Quincy's Experiences-Why the Barbers were FederalistsPersonal Appearance of Jefferson and Madison-Hospitality at
Monticello —" Country Gentleman" Style of Living-Domestic
Life of the Ex-President-Illustrative Anecdotes-Death of Jefferson-Interesting Case of Virginia Murray-Character of John
Randolph-His Declamation and piquant Wit-The Irishman
who sought his Acquaintance-Amusing Anecdotes,.... 57
IV.  MADISON'S  ADMINISTRATION.
Condition of the City of Washington-Heterogeneous Elements of
Society-Mrs. Madison's Influence-Accession to the Presidency
-Beauty and Fashion at the Drawing-rooms-The Office Seeker
satisfied with old Clothes-First Visit of William C. Preston
to the White House-A Bashful Boy-The Grace and Beauty of
the Hostess-Her maternal Claim to the Lad-His Introduction
to the Belles-Miss Mayo (afterwards Mrs. Scott) and Miss
Coles-The Cavalier made Useful-Domestic Habits of the
Rulers-The raw Youth at the Reception —Remarkable Statesmen of the Time -The War with Great Britain-Details of
Dr. Beans' Adventure-Francis Key to the Rescue-" The
Star-Spangled Banner " —The News of Peace-Brilliant Party
and queenly Beauty of the Hostess-Court Etiquette towards
Foreigners,.................... 80
V.  MONROE'S  ADMINISTRATION.
Monroe a Representative of an Age prolific in Great Men-The
Eulogy of Peyton and Adams —The Old Man at the PollsInauguration of Monroe-His Cabinet-The Dress of the Period
— " The Last of the Cocked Hats "-Curious Reminiscence at
the first Levee —Monroe's Character-Madison's Anecdote of
the Dutchmen-Henry Clay a rising Man —Calhoun in his Youth




CONTENTS.                          Vii
PAGE.
-Men of Note -Judge Marshall -W-illiam  H. Crawford —
Thomas H. Benton and Others-The Quarrel of the British
and French Ministers at a Court -Dinner-Lighting of the
Executive Mansion-Extinction of the Federal Party-Mrs.
Monroe and her accomplished Daughters-Mr. Crawford's Rebuff by the President-Female Society in Washington-Letter
of Lord Holland introducing two young Gentlemen of Rank
-The Presidential Campaign-Disinterestedness of MonroeLetter of La Fayette-His Offer of Aid declined-The Grandchildren of Monroe-Mr. and Mrs. Gouverneur-Sketch of lMrs.
Wingate,...................95
VI. JOHN QUINCY ADAMS' ADMINISTRATION.
Jefferson's Opinion of Adams-His previous Career-Dress in the
Senate-As Secretary of State —Mrs. Adams-Her Influence on
Society-Personal Appearance of Adams-Anecdotes —Levee
after the Counting of the Electoral Votes-Meeting between the
President and Jackson-The Inauguration-Re-opening of the
old Controversy of Parties-Duel between Clay and Randolph
-The Gossip discreet for once-Effects of early Rising-New
Year's Receptions —The Congressional Library a Lounging-place
-Etiquette at Presidential Parties-Party at the British Minister's-Brilliant one given by the Secretary of War-Remarks
of a Belle of Jefferson's days-Description of the " Court of the
younger Adams "-Soiree given by the Dutch Minister-Randolph's Praise of Poverty-Prominent Statesmen and reigning
Belles-The Premier's last Party for the season-Mrs. Secretary
Porter-Mr. Clay's Party-Character of Mr. Adams,.... 123
VII.  JACKSON'S  ADMINISTRATION.
Jackson's Election by an overpowering Majority-Death of his
Wife —His Inauguration-His Cabinet — Scandal about Mrs.
Eaton-The Suitor for the President's Pipe-Conspicuous Men
-Ladies of the White House-Webster's Oratory and the
Farmers-Albert Gallatin and his Compeers-Description of
Georgetown-Excursion to Norfolk —Fanny Wright as a Lecturer-Specific to change Negroes to white Persons-Festivities of the Capital-Jackson's celebrated Toast at a Dinner —
Refusal of the Ladies to visit Mrs. Eaton-A Philadelphian who
thought the Senate's rising was in Honor of him-Changes in
the Cabinet-Party at Pointdexter's-Descriptions and Anecdotes of General Jackson-Threatening of Nullification —Mr.




VT1iii         ~CONTENTS.
PAGE.
Clay and Mr. Calhoun-Death of John Randolph-HIis Character and last Hours-Visit of the Portuguese Minister to the
President,.......143
VIII.  JACKSON'S  ADMINISTRATION.
Party at Secretary Woodbury's — Social Etiquette-The President crowded from  his own Table-Popular Churches-Mr.
Cass's Party-New Year's Levee-Amos Kendall-Mrs. Florida
WVhite-Presidential Ball and Supper-Mrs. Huntington-Mrs.
Johnston-Mrs. Benton's Coteries —Miss Cora LivingstonMemoir of Mrs. Benton-Her Succor of a poor Girl —The mad
WVoman's attempt to kill her, to save her from the Ills of LifeMr. Benton's timely Interposition-Mrs. Benton's Liberation of
her Slaves-Curious scene of the Execution of the Expunging
Resolution-" Spat" between Mr. Buchanan and Mr. ClaySociety and Manners in Washington-Etiquette of PartiesAmusing Account of a fashionable Soiree-The rough Kentuckian and his " Jane "-The deaf Foreign Minister and
the Belle — Nicholas Biddle-Tableau party in Georgetown
— The eccentric Secretary of the Navy- Gorgeous Fancy
Ball-First attempt at a Masquerade-Mrs. Forsythe's Parties
-Mrs. Woodbury's-Brilliant one in Baltimore-Miss Martineau and her Tube —Santa Anna —Scene in the Gallery —
Judges of the Supreme Court — Scene in the Library — The
Big Cheese-Amusing Anecdotes of Jackson's Determination
-Memoir of Mrs. Edward Livingston-Memoir of Mrs. Levi
Woodbury,................. 169
IX.  VAN BUREN'S ADMINISTRATION.
The new President's wifeless Condition a Difficulty to meeting the
Claims of Society-Mrs. General Macomb's splendid Party-Ladies conspicuous for Fashion and Beauty-The Rival Generals
-The Inauguration, and Ball-Noted Men of the Time-" Connecticut Niles "-Indian Delegation-Calhoun and Preston-Mrs.
Mladison's Return to Washington — The Diplomatic CorpsScene in the Gallery-Exciting Scene in the House- New
Year's Receptions-Mrs. Adams and Mrs. Madison-Hugh Legare-The Jam  in the Galleries-Mrs. Kendall's Party-Mrs.
Paulding-Mrs. General Scott-Mrs. De Witt Clinton —Mrs.
Gales-Mrs. Seton —Mrs. Dickens —Mrs. Macomb-The Cilley
Duel —Scene at Mrs. Towson's Party — Calhoun, Clay and




CONTENTS.                          iX
PAGE.
Webster in Competition-Mrs. Schaumburg-The Prince de
Joinvilie-Brilliant Party at M. de Bodisco's-Scene at a Presidential Levee-Vespucci at a Cabinet Dinner-The White
House on Fire - A " Locofoco Jam" -Madam  Calderon's
Musical Party —Mr. Preston- The Birthnight Ball, and
Catastrophe of the Chandelier-Grand Closing Fete-Clay
and Van Buren-Marriage of M. de Bodisco-The Chinese
Mandarin at the Spanish Minister's Party,..        234
X.  HARRISON'S ADMINISTRATION.
Grand Jubilee in honor of Harrison's Election-The President's
Dinner-Crowds to witness the Inauguration-" The Father
of the House "-" An unruly Set of Boys "- Major Barney
-The three Generals Candidates for the Succession —The
Farmer and the President-Heiresses and Beauties-Phases
of Society in Washington- The Southern Aristocracy and
the Official Circles-Forms and Barriers swept away by the
Russian Minister  The Circle Professional — Death of the
President-The Military Funeral-The Ladies of the Family
-Fears for Mrs. Harrison-Third time of Tyler's stepping
into Place by the Death of the Incumbent-His Arrival in
Washington and taking of the Oath of Office —Character of
President Harrison,............... 282
XI. TYLER'S ADMINISTRATION.
Confidence in John Tyler-A Model of Courtesy and DignityThe weather-beaten Englishman-Scene at Tyler's Home-Rumors of the British Minister's Marriage-The Ladies of the Executive Mansion-Mrs. Robert Tyler —Extracts from her Letters
describing Life at the White House-Receptions-The first Diplomatic Dinner-The City full of splendid Women-A Lady's
Conversation with the President-Summer Assemblages in the
Executive Grounds, with Music-The Fourth of July-Fashionable Belles and Statesmen on the Promenade, at the rural
Reunions-Fancy of the Negroes about the Veto-Political
Disagreements no Bar to Social Gayety-Incident at Mrs.
Crittenden's Party - Mrs.'Bell's Party in August - Mrs.
Robert Tyler's Description of her New Year's Reception,
and of Madame Bodisco's Party, and the Ball in the Theater
-Lord Morpeth at Dinner at the White House - Justices
of the Supreme Court-Party at the "Mess" at Kennedy's




X                        CONTENTS.
PAGE.
-The Butcher at the President's — Mrs. Tyler's Reception
for Dickens............ 296
XII.  TYLER'S ADMINISTRATION.
Clay's Adieu to the Senate-Lord Ashburton's Arrival-Men prominent in the Court Circle-Mrs. Robert Tyler's Letter after the
Death of her Mother-in-Law-Seven Thousand at the New
Year's Levee, 1843-Webster's Reception-Receptions of Mr.
Adams and Mrs. Tayloe-Mrs. Tyler's amusing Description of
her Party and Supper given to Marshal Bertrand-a Juvenile
Fancy Ball at the White House-" The Washington Assemblies"
organized-Ladies most admired-The new British Minister —
01 B1ull —Receptions by the Secretaries-Mrs. Gouverneur's
splendid Party-Self-styled Leaders who were Parvenues-Brilliant Entertainments-General McDuffie-Captain Stockton —
Madame Pageot's Party, and Disappointment of the Expectations of a Parisian Supper-The Excursion on board "the
Princeton "-Terrible Catastrophe-Mrs. Madison's Party in May
-The Marriage of President Tyler to Miss Gardiner-Memoir
of the Bride -Mr. Pakenham's Entertainment-The new President elect-Grand Ball given by Mrs. John Tyler-Colonel and
Mrs. Tuley of Virginia,..............       337
XIII.  POLK'S ADMINISTRATION.
Progress of the President elect to Washington-Mrs. Polk and
Mrs. Knox Walker-Visit to President Tyler-The Inauguration —Mrs. Tyler's last Reception-Inauguration Balls-Grace
and Dignity of Mrs. Polk in receiving at the White House-Mr.
Dallas-An " April Fool " Joke-Curious Habits of Mr. FoxSpring Evenings at the President's —Mrs. Abraham Van Buren
-The May Balls-Madame Pageot's Graduation of Aristocracy
— Prominent Statesmen —The Wisconsin Office-seeker-Louis
McLane-Mrs. Polk's Elegance of Dress and Manner-George
Bancroft-Jimmy Maher's Opinion of Mr. Polk and the Ladies-The Pottawattamies-Mrs. Maury's Introduction at the
Courts-Descriptions of Mr. Polk and the prominent Statesmen of the Period-Conversation with Calhoun about the
Union-Visit to Mr. Clay-A populous New Year's Procession-General Cass and other Orators —The Misses Sloman
-The Hero of Chippewa-Death of John Quincy Adams and
Dixon H. Lewis,............... 368




CONTENTS.                          xi
XIV.  TAYLOR'S ADMINISTRATION.
PAGE.
Character of General Taylor-, Mrs. Taylor-Their Children-Residence at Baton Rouge-Meeting of Taylor and Clay-The Rush
of Office-Seekers to the New Orleans Tailor to put their Petitions in " Old Zach's" Pockets-Setting out of the Ladies for
Washington-Progress of the President Elect-Afoul of a Snag
-Landing and Rustic Reception-Accident on board a Steamboat-President Polk's last Levee-Amusing Visit of General
Cass to President Taylor-His personal Appearance-Ladies
of his Party-Inauguration Ceremonies-Comical Description
of the Ball-The Cabinet-Death of General Gaines-Return of
Henry Clay-The Osage Indians at the White House and at
their Hotel —Senator Fremont-Amusing Scene in the SenateSir Henry Lytton Bulwer-Death of Mr. Calhoun-Death of
President Taylor-His Obsequies-His Career,..... 411
XV.  FILLMORE'S ADMINISTRATION.
Mr. Fillmore's Mother a Woman of superior Intellect-Hereditary
Virtue a Patent of Nobility-Appearance of Mr. Fillmore-His
Public Services and prominent Position in Congress —His noble
Character —His Dignity and Urbanity as Vice-President-Accession to the Presidency-His Plan for the Extension of the Capitol-Various Exploring Expeditions sent out-Eminently combines the Requisites for a great and able Chief MagistrateMrs. Henry L. Scott-Visit of Kossuth to Washington-Dinner
given him by the President-Thirty-six Guests-Seward's Entertainment for him-Dancing of Lola Montez at the Theater
appreciated by Fashionable Ladies-Death of Henry Clay-Memoir of Mrs. Fillmore —Personal Appearance-Official Dinners
every ~Week, and Morning Receptions-Mrs. Fillmore's early
Life —Romantic first Acquaintance with young Fillmore-Domestic Tastes of the lovely young Wife —Her Presidency at the
White House-Her Death in Washington,.......  432
XVI.  PIERCE'S ADMINISTRATION.
Excitement at Pierce's Nomination-Delicate Health of Mrs.
Pierce-Habits of the President Elect-Early Life and beautiful Character of Mrs. Pierce  Her Devotion to the Duties of
her Station-The Accident that made her childless-Departure
of Pierce for Washington-Webster, the private SecretaryGeneral Pierce in New York, and Evasion of his Pursuers-A



Xii                      CONTENTS.
PAGE.
thousand Visitors in Philadelphia-His Cabinet-The last Night
in Congress-Scene of the Inauguration-Sketch of General
Pierce and the Vice-President-Secretary Marcy-The other
Secretaries-Entertainment given by the Brazilian MinisterArray of Beauty-Presidential and Cabinet Doings anatomized
at the Tea-tables-Judge Douglas and Beverly Tucker —Diplomatic Dinner-Splendid Parties in Washington-Mrs. Jefferson
Davis-The Belles and their Toilets-Grouping of the fair Representatives of the different Sections-Governor Aiken's grand
Party-Amusing Story of the British Minister-Marriage of
Senator Douglas-Mrs. Douglas-Stirring Scene on Thanksgiving Morning-General Houston —Reception at Secretary
McClelland's-Senator Butler, of South Carolina-Mrs. Guthrie's Party-Anecdotes,.............. 447
XVII.  BUCHANAN'S ADMINISTRATION.
The "Pilgrims" to Wheatland-Dan Dougherty-Fancy Characters assumed by the Ladies at a Ball in Washington-Excitement in the Federal City-Procession of Citizens to escort the
President Elect-The Inauguration-The Mysterious Old Man
at Capitol Hill-Sketch of Buchanan and Breckenridge-General Lewis Cass —Other Members of the Cabinet-Arrival of
Lord and Lady Napier-Miss Harriet Lane's first ReceptionFirst Dinner Party-Lord Napier's Hospitality-Mirs. Alexander Slidell-Mrs. Rose Greenhow-New Regime at the White
House — Superb Entertainment at Governor Brown's-Sir WTilliam and Lady Ouseley-The Elite of Society at Secretary
Thompson's-Ladies Described-The Charming Miss Ellen
Woodbury-Lady Napier's Party-Scene in the Gallery to hear
the Vote on the Kansas Question-Lord Napier's Party to Mrr.
Everett-Mr. and Mrs. Charles Eames-Mrs. Pickens,....  478
XVIII.  BUCHANAN'S ADMINISTRATION.
The Expected Visit of the Prince of Wales-His Arrival —General Cass introduced by Lord Lyons-The Prince at the White
House-Visits the Capital-Reception in Honor of Him-Game
at Ten-pins with Miss Lane-Diplomatic Dinner, and Evening
Reception-The Prince at the Tomb of Washington-Dinner
at Lord Lyons' —The Prince a " Heart-smasher"-Sketch of
Harriet Lane-Her Marriage-Letter of Queen Victoria —Of
the Prince of Wales-Political Excitement-Mr. Crittenden's
Great Speech-His Dinner Party-Senator Toombs and Gen



CONTENTS.                         Xiii
PAGE.
eral Scott-The President's last Levee-Display of Martial
Preparation around Washington-The Peace CommissionersImposing Scene of Counting the Electoral Votes-Noted Mlen
present and their Manifestations of Interest —Douglas and
Lane —Abraham Lincoln declared President —Quiet dispersion
of the People,.................. 502
XIX.  LINCOLN'S ADMINISTRATION.
Dangers ahead for the New President-Visitors to him in Springfield-The Delegates to the Washington Conference-Farewell
Party given by Mr. and Mrs. Lincoln-Sketch of Mrs. LincolnProgress to Washington-The President's Military EscortGorgeous Reception in New York-Ladies of Mrs. Lincoln's
Party-General Doniphan and " Old Abe"-Notices of Lincoln
and his Cabinet-Gorgeous Scene of the Inauguration-Attendance at the Ball-Appearance of Mrs. Lincoln and other lLadies-The first Levee a "'Monster Gathering"-An English
Tourist's Description of Lincoln-Other Prominent Men —Mr.
Sumner-Mr. Stanton —Wendell Phillips-Alexander H. Stephens-Lincoln's humorous Advice to Lord Lyons-Crowded
New Year's Reception-Hon. James W. White-Mrs. Farragut-Hon. Judge Brewster-Financial Movements,..... 521
XX.  JOHNSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
Social Reaction from the Depression caused by the War-The
fashionable Season a Carnival-Changes in Society-Andrew
Johnson and his Family —New Years, 1866-Prominent Ladies-The French Minister's Party-Marriage of Mrs. Douglas-Madame Le Vert and her Daughters-Opening Receptions
of the next January-Mrs. Sprague —Receptions at Chief-Justice
Chase's-Celebrities and Beauties-Hon. Alex. W. RandallMrs. Randall-Mrs. Grant's Dress and Receptions-A new
Feature at the White House —The Foreign Ministers-Fashionable Gayety at its toppling Height-Party at Admiral Lee'sSplendid Party at General Butler's-At Senator Morgan's, &c.Last Reception of the President-Mrs. Dahlgren's ReunionsMrs. Pomeroy-Mrs. Henderson-Mrs. Williams-Mrs. Gaines
-Rush to the Capital,............... 550
XXI.  GRANT'S ADMIINISTRATION.
Last Reception of the retiring President-Ladies' Dresses-Mrs.
Thomas-Inauguration Day-The Procession and Pageants



XiV                     CONTENTS.
PAGE.
Surviving Soldiers of the War of 1812-The Ship of State-The
crowded Ball-Dresses of the Ladies-The Generals presentToo crowded for Comfort-Incident in New Orleans-General
Gaines' gallant Defense of his Wife-The partial Judge-The
Advocate of " Women's Rights" —Mrs. Gaines' Interview with
her, and sensible Reproof of her Conduct —Ole Bull again-The
Cabinet-Mrs. Walworth-Mrs. Gates-Sketch of Mrs. GrantHer first Reception in the White House-Dresses of the Ladies
-Second Reception-Reception of Applicants for Office, &c., at
the White House-Mrs. Dix's Reception to Mr. WashburneMrs. Robb-Mr. Philp's Entertainment,...... 568




The Court Circles of the Republic.
I.
WASHINGTON'S ADMINISTRATION.
Establishment of the First Presidential Court-Imposing Spectacle of
the Inauguration-Brilliant Festivities in Honor of it-Arrival of
Mrs. Washington and Mrs. Robert Morris-First Levee-The President's Equipage-Prominent Ladies and Statesmen-Dress of the
President at his Official Receptions-Style of Ordinary Ones-Mrs
Izard-Mrs. Knox-Alexander Hamilton-Robert Morris-Gouverneur Morris-Mrs. Burr-Attorneys and Divines in New YorkEdmund Randolph —John Jay —Jefferson, Secretary of StateCharles Carroll of Maryland-The Misses White-Party at Mr.
White's-The Best Dressed Gentleman-New Year's Calls-The
President drawn by Six Horses to Federal Hall —Death of
Franklin-Removal of the Capital from New York to Philadelphia-House assigned to the President-Brilliant Society-Mrs.
Bingham and other Leaders of the Ton-Conspicuous Men of the
Period-Foreign Visitors of exalted Rank-The Farewell LeveeDeportment in the Drawing-room a reflex of Temper in the Cabinet and Congress.
SMRS. WASHINGTON is venerated as the earliest
representative leader among the ladies prominent in
the best society of the Republic.  When the  Chief
was summoned by the nation to assume the duties
of its Chief Magistrate, she came to form the establishment of the Presideht at the seat of government.
In March and April 1789, the meeting of the first
Congress under the Constitution took place, and the
2




16       WASHINGTON'S ADMINISTRATION.
votes for the first President of the United States
were opened and counted. Gen. Washington being
notified of his election, left Mount Vernon for New
York, greeted all along the way by the irrepressible
enthusiasm of the people. Received with due honors
at the Capital, he was conducted to his official residence, at what is now the corner of Cherry Street
and Franklin Square. The imposing spectacle of the
Inauguration took place with appropriate ceremonies
in Federal Hall, April 30, 1789. The oath of office
was administered by Chancellor Livingston. In the
evening the city was brilliantly illuminated, and there
was a display of fire-works. Afterwards rules were
established for receiving visitors and entertaining company.  At first a public intimation was given that
the President would receive visitors on Tuesdays and
Fridays, from two to three in the afternoon. Consulting friends, he adopted chiefly Mr. Hamilton's
suggestions in social matters; and it was decided
that the President should return no visits, and that
invitations to dinner should be given only to official
characters and strangers of distinction. The levees
were held every Tuesday afternoon.
On the 7th of May a splendid ball was given at
the assembly-rooms, at which the President and VicePresident appeared, with many members of both
Houses of Congress, the foreign ministers, and distinguished citizens. The ladies were dressed with
great taste and elegance, but little jewelry was then
worn. Lady Stirling and her daughters, and her sister-in-law Mrs. Livingston, Mrs. Montgomery, Lady
Christiana Griffin, Lady Temple, the Marchioness de




MRS. WASHINGTON'S ARRIVAL.        17
Brehan, Mrs. Clinton, Mrs. Duane the Mayoress, Mrs.
Prevost the Bishop's wife, Mrs. Jay, Mrs. Hamilton,
Mrs. Beekman, &c., were among the number. The
next week the Count de Moustier gave a grand ball
at his house in Broadway. Elias Boudinot described
it as "a most splendid ball indeed." Mrs. Washington, accompanied by her grandchildren Eleanor Custis and George Washington Parke Custis, set out from
Mount Vernon on the 19th of May, in her carriage,
with a small equestrian escort.  She was received
with honors at every stopping-place, and was entertained in Philadelphia by Mrs. Robert Morris, and at
Elizabethtown by the venerable Governor Livingston
and his daughters. The President came here to meet
her, in a splendid barge; and as. they approached the
battery, a salute of thirteen guns was fired; while
crowds greeted the landing of the distinguished passengers. On: the day after the arrival of Mrs. Washington a dinner was given at the President's, to VicePresident Adams, Governor Clinton, the Count de
Moustier, Mr. Jay, General St. Clair, the Spanish minister, five Senators and the Speaker of the HIouse.
Mr. Wingate said it was the least showy dinner he
had ever seen at that table. Washington said grace,
and dined on boiled leg of mutton. After the dessert,
a single glass of wine was offered to each guest, and
when it was drunk, General Washington rose and the
company adjourned to the drawing-room.
On the 29th of May, Mrs. Washington held her
first levee; and they were continued every Friday
evening from eight to ten o'clock. These receptions
were marked by little ostentation or restraint, and.




18       WASHINGTON'S ADMINISTRATION.
were attended by all that was fashionable, elegant, or
refined in society; but they were select and courtly,
and not subject to the intrusion of the rabble. Mrs.
Washington was careful to exact proper courtesies in
her drawing-room. None were admitted to the levees
but those entitled by official station, established merit,
or suitable introductions; and full dress was required
of all. A drawing-room sufficiently capacious in the
President's house was plainly furnished; some pictures and ornaments, and the family plate, had been
brought from Mount Vernon. The state coach was
the finest carriage in the city, usually drawn by four
horses; but always by six when it conveyed the
President to Federal Hall. It was cream-colored and
ornamented with cupids supporting festoons, with
borderings of flowers around the panels.
The residence of the President was afterwards in
Broadway near the Bowling Green. His office was
on the first floor, opposite the drawing-rooms. The
Vice-President had a beautiful rural residence at
Richmond Hill.
In addition to the other ladies mentioned as guests
at the ball, among the leading ladies of the metropolis were Lady Kitty Duer, Lady Mary Watts, Madame
de la Forest, Mrs. John Langdon, Mrs. Tristram Dalton, Mrs. Knox, Mrs. Robert R. Livingston, the Misses
Livingston, Mrs. Thompson, Mrs. Gerry, Mrs. McComb,
Mrs. Edgar, Mrs. Lynch, Mrs. Houston, the Misses
Bayard, Mrs. Livingston of Clermont, and many
others. At his own official receptions Washington
greeted his visitors with a bow, without shaking
hands. He wore a black velvet suit, with white vest




SOCIAL AMUSEMENTS IN NEW YORK.         19
and yellow gloves, breeches, silver knee and shoebuckles, and a long steel-hilted sword; a cocked hat
in his hand. At his wife's levees he had neither hat
nor sword, but conversed without restraint as a private
gentleman. Mrs. Washington was about fifty-seven
years of age when she opened the "Republican
Court;" and she retained much of the grace of her
earlier years.
The festivities that followed the inaugurationpublic and private-were interrupted by the illhealth of the President and the death of his venerable mother; so that he and Mrs. Washington participated in few gayeties during the winter that New
York continued the national capital.
Several fanlmilies who had held in the province a
sort of baronial supremacy, were now eminent in
public service or in private society; yet in social
elegance the circles of New York were inferior to
those of Philadelphia. New York continued to be
the metropolis less than two years.
Mrs. Washington's decided disinclination to balls
perhaps diminished the number given. But there
were public amusements; an exhibition of wax-work
is mentioned, and a review and sham fight; theatricals also had some encouragement, and private performances were sometimes given in the President's
house. The wife of Robert Morris, the great financier, was usually at Mrs. Washington's right hand at
her drawing-rooms; Mr. Morris having that post at
her dinners. The refreshments at the ordinary levees
were plain, consisting generally of tea and coffee with
cake. It has been said that ice-creams were first in



20       WASHINGTON'S ADMINISTRATION.
troduced by Mrs. Washington. Mrs. Knox was a
remarkable character of the time.  She and her
husband were said to be "the largest couple in
the city." She was a lively and amiable leader of
society, and his brilliant conversation and unfailing
good humor brightened every circle. Many thought
Mrs. Knox's co-operation and approval indispensable
in the drawing-room or the ball-room. The house of
the Secretary of War was the scene of munificent
hospitality.
Mrs. Izard, of South Carolina, was about the age of
MIrs. Adams. Her French descent, her marriage with
a man of accomplishments and liberal fortune, her
association with a brilliant society in London, Paris
and Florence, fitted her to sustain her part with distinguished effect.  Her beauty and wit made her
universally admired.
Alexander Hamilton was a man of extraordinary
genius, activity and knowledge. He was, of course,
one of the most prominent men in the society of the
period. He lived on the corner of Wall and Broad
Streets, but built a beautiful country house-" The
Grange "-on the island, a few miles from the city.
HIe had a remarkably expressive face. He was under
the middle size and thin, but erect and dignified.
His hair was turned back from his forehead, powdered, and clubbed behind. His fair and rosy complexion, the play of his features lighted up with
intelligence and vivacity, his sweet smile, attracted
all who saw him. He had a mind of vast grasp, and
was great either as a speaker or a writer.  The
originality of his views evinced the possession of




GOUVERNEUR MORRIS.             21
genius. He was a frank, amiable, high-toned gentleman. His wife, the daughter of General Schuyler,
was one of the most charming women of the time.
William Livingston, a most able representative
of New Jersey, a forcible and elegant writer, was
extremely plain in his dress and manner. Robert
Morris was a native of England, but had lived in
America since he was thirteen. Gouverneur Morris
was the youngest son of Lewis Morris. He assisted
Robert Morris in the superintendence of the finances.
One of the ancestors of Gouverneur Morris, who
had been noted as a leader in Cromwell's army, came
to New York, and purchased a thousand acres of land,
with manorial privileges, in the vicinity of Harlem.
The estate is still known as Morrisania. Gouverneur,
born in 1752, was distinguished in the Revolutionary
war, and eminently useful in his public life. He was
sent as minister to France in 1792. A vein of eccentricity, with striking originality, marked his character; his commanding figure, expressive features,
and emphatic articulation, with his superior intellect,
made an impression on society. Madame de Stael
remarked that he had "l'air tres imposant."  He
married a niece of John Randolph. The story went
that he had invited a number of relatives to a Christmas dinner, and when the company was assembled,
that he left the room and soon returned with his
bride and a clergyman, who forthwith performed the
marriage ceremony, to the astonishment of all, and
the disappointment of those who expected to inherit
the estate. While he was in attendance on Congress
in Philadelphia, an accident caused the loss of his




22       WASHIINGTON'S ADMINISTRATION.
leg, and he had it replaced by a stump. On one
occasion, when the cry of " aristocrat" was raised
against him in the streets of Paris, for appearing
in his carriage, when no such things were allowed
by the mob, and the blood-thirsty crowd threatened
his life-he coolly thrust his wooden leg out of the
window, and cried out: "An aristocrat! yes —who
lost his limb in the cause of American liberty!" He
was not only allowed to proceed but vehemently
cheered.
When a friend asked his son, a boy of four, if he
had read Robinson Crusoe and Jack the Giant-killer?
Morris said: "Tell the gentleman-no; but that you
are acquainted with the lives of Gustavus Adolphus,
and Charles the Twelfth of Sweden."
Intelligent crowds would hang in silent admiration
on. his eloquence; and servants would stop openmouthed, dish in hand, to catch his table-talk. It was
his rare fortune to be intimate with the leading spirits of two nations at a time of social and political
convulsion, which brought into action the gifts and
graces as well as the passions of humanity. His correspondence with Washington showed mutual respect
and confidence. Once at a dinner party it was insisted that no one, however intimate, would dare take
a liberty with the Chief. Gouverneur Morris foolishly
accepted a bet that he would venture on the experiment. Just before dinner was announced, while the
guests stood by the fire, in the midst of a lively chat,
Morris clapped Washington familiarly on the shoulder.
The Chief turned and gave him a look of such mild
and dignified yet grieved surprise, that his friend




MRS. BURR-ATTORNEYS AND DIVINES.   23
shrank back repentant of his forgetfulness of respect,
while the mirth of the company was instantly awed
into silence.
A story was related in the Morris family, that while
he was sojourning in Paris, the King noticed the remarkable resemblance which Gouverneur Morris bore
his own royal family. One day Aduring an audience,
the monarch, after looking fixedly at the American.
statesman, exclaimed with energy: "The likeness is,
indeed, too wonderful to be accidental!" immediately
adding: c" Pray, Mr. Morris-was your mother ever in
France?"
With a low bow Morris instantly replied: "Noyour majesty; but my father was!"
Mrs. Aaron Burr,-who had been Mrs. Prevost,
the widow of a British officer, and had married Burr
in 1782,-did not go into society. In 1789 Burr
was only thirty-three.  "He was small but well
formed; with a handsome face, by some described as
striking, and eyes jet black and uncommonly brilliant and piercing, with a manner singularly graceful, gentle and fascinating."
At this time the list of attorneys in the city comprised one hundred and twenty-two names; that of
clergymen only fourteen.  The legal learning and
eloquence were then eminent; and the names of
Duane, Hamilton, Jay, Kent, Troup, Lewis, the Livingstons, Morris, Hoffman and others, &c., are still
remembered as ornaments to the profession. Dr.
Linn, of the Reformed Dutch Church, was a fine
scholar and a fervid, graceful orator.  "The very
good-tempered, gentlemanly and scholarly Dr. Pro



24       WASHINGTON S ADMINISTRATION.
vost," was bishop of the Episcopal Church, and was
also much sought by his friends for his social qualities.
Sullivan thus described Mr. John Jay; v" His height
was a little less than six feet; his person rather thin,
but well formed. His complexion was without color,
his eyes black and penetrating, his nose aquiline, and
his chin pointed. His hair came over his forehead,
was tied behind, and lightly powdered; his dress
black. The expression of his face was exceedingly
amiable. When standing he was a little inclined
forward, as is not uncommon with students long
accustomed to bend over a table. His manner was
very gentle and unassumning. His deportment was
tranquil.
History will assign to John Jay an elevated rank
among the great; it will place him equally high
among the pure and virtuous." He was born in New
York in 1748. In 1779 he was appointed minister to
Spain; in 1782 he was sent as one of the Commissioners to negotiate a peace with England. On the
adoption of the Constitution, he was appointed Chief
Justice of the United States, and resigned that office
in 1795, to become Governor of ]New York.
It will be remembered that President Washington
chose Mr. Jefferson to preside over the department
of State. He had filled the office of minister plenipotentiary at the court of France, as the successor
of Franklin.  Alexander Hamilton was appointed
Secretary of the Treasury; General Knox continued
Secretary of War, as he had been under the confederation. Edmund Randolph of Virginia, was made
Attorney General, and Samuel Osgood Postmaster




SOCIAL CELEBRITIES.           25
General.  These heads of Departments of course
aided to form the court society. Mr. Jay accepted
the office of Chief Justice, and his colleagues were
William Cushing, of Massachusetts, James Wilson of
Pennsylvania, John Blair, and John Rutledge the
eloquent statesman from South Carolina, with James
Iredell, of North Carolina. The manners of Mr. Edmund Randolph and his agreeable conversation had
caused him to be described as "the first gentleman
of Virginia."  He had succeeded Patrick Henry as
Governor of that State.  His figure was tall and
imposing, and he always dressed elegantly. John
Randolph, of Roanoke, was his relative, and in New
York at the time; he was sixteen years of age, and
very lank, awkward and ill-dressed; known to everybody, however, as a boy of ability, destined to play
an extraordinary part in the world.
Sullivan described Charles Carroll, the Senator from
Maryland, as rather small and thin, with very gracious
and polished manners. He was a man of great accomlplishments and rare abilities, and was universally
respected and beloved.  Several members of his
family were with him during the second session of
the first Congress in New York. Polly, his daughter,
was already married to Mr. Richard Caton, an English
gentleman. The Misses White-daughters of Henry
White, were conspicuous in society, though of a loyalist family. Sabine says: c" Madame White was a lady
of great wealth, and her recollections of New York
society were curious." An elderly gentleman who
went one evening' to a party at the house of Mr.
White-in the winter of 1789-90 —spoke rapturously




26       WASHINGTON'S ADMINISTRATION
of the young ladies-" so gay and fashionable, so
charming in conversation, with such elegant figures.'
On this occasion he went with Sir John Temple and
Henry Remsen, and was dressed "in a light blue
French coat, with a high collar, broad lappels and
large gilt buttons, a double-breasted marseilles vest,
nankeen colored cassimere breeches, with white silk
stockings, shining pumps, and full ruffles on my breast
and at my wrists, together with a ponderous white
cravat with a pudding in it, as we then called it; and
I was considered the best dressed gentleman in the
room. I remember to have waltzed a minuet with
much grace, with my friend Mrs. Verplanck, who was
dressed in hoop and petticoats; I caught cold that
night fiom drinking hot port wine negus, and riding
home in a sedan chair with one of the glasses broken."
The foreign ministers added little to society this
season. Mr. Van Berckel represented the States General of the United Netherlands, and had just returned
from Europe. The custom of making calls on New
Year's day brought to New York by the Dutch and
the Huguenots, was duly observed on the first of
January, 1790; the principal gentlemen waiting on
the President. Mrs. Washington's levee held in the
evening was attended with unusual elegance. Contrary to usual custom, the visitors were seated, and
partook of tea and coffee, and plain and plum cake.
The President expressed his hope that the New
Yorkers would never forget the cordial and cheerful
observance of New Year's day.
The President came to Federal Hall in his chariot
drawn by six horses, to open the second session, and




THE PRESIDENT S HOUSE.          27
delivered his speech in the Senate Chamber.  He
was dressed in a suit of cloth manufactured in IIartford. Many public dinners were given this winter;
the President continuing his every Wednesday to
members of Congress, ambassadors and eminent
persons.
Mr. Jefferson, who had returned from France with
his two daughters, and had rested some time at Monticello, came to New York, by a fortnight's journey
from Richmond. He took a house in Maiden Lane,
and was cordially received by the ePresident and the
citizens. The dinner parties made him at once familiar with them.
A gloom fell over society with the news of Franklin's death in Philadelphia. This occurred in April.
The session, the last ever held in New York, was
closed in August. Leaving the city to go to Virginia,
General Washington never again returned to live
there.
The best private house in the city of Philadelphia
-that of Robert Morris-was taken by the corporation for the residence of the President, and some
additions were made for the accommodation of the
family. The stables would hold "twelve horses only,"
and there was a coach house for all the carriages. It
was the determination of Washington to live in a
style of the utmost simplicity and modesty consistent
with the dignity of his official position.  The rent
of the house was settled at three thousand dollars a
year. In no respect did the President deserve the
charges of anti-republican state and splendor, made
against him by political opponents. Ile himself wrote




28       WASHINGTON'S ADMINISTRATI0-N.
to Mrs. Macaulay: "Mrs. Washington's ideas coincide
with my own as to simplicity of dress, and everything
which can tend to support propriety of character
without partaking of the follies of luxury and ostentation."
It was with reluctance that General Washington
permitted his name to be used for a second Presidential term.  Mr. Hamilton urged that his declining
would involve great evils to the country at that crisis
of affairs. The affairs of the national government
were not yet firmly established, and much was to be
dreaded if the venerated and beloved Chief refused
to continue in office. The re-election was unanimous,
and on the 4th of March, 1793, he again took the
oath of office in the hall of the Senate.
There were not wanting enemies to the administration; and active among these was Philip Freneau,
who was said to write under the dictation of Mr.
Jefferson. The pretenses for attacks on the President
were his reserved manners, and his not supporting
some demand of the army. He and his friends were
accused of a leaning towards a monarchical form of
government. Washington had not yet learned to
make bows to suit the democracy!
M. Genet was the first minister sent by the French
Republic. The exhibitions of popular enthusiasm on
his coming grew out of the sympathy felt by a growing party with those who had thrown off the yoke of
royalty. Democratic societies were formed in imitation of Jacobin Clubs; and common forms of expression such as the title of "citizen" became rife in Philadelphia.  Genet complained at, eeing a bust of




SOCIETY IN PHILADELPHIA.        29
Louis XVI. in the vestibule of the President's house;
and his conduct was such, that General Washington at
length procured his recall. Genet was a member of
one of the first families of France, and a brother of
the celebrated Madame Campan. He married Miss
Cornelia Tappan Clinton, a daughter of the Governor
of New York, and fixed his residence in this country.
The party opposed to the administration, of which
Jefferson was the apostle, now began to exert an influence deemed formidable. The events of the French
Revolution had given an impulse to the spirit of ultra democracy. It pervaded society, and formed the
subject of conversation in public and private circles
throughout the country.  The old respectability of
the nation continued to adhere to the party of which
Washington was the founder and head. Mr. Jefferson
was no longer Secretary of State, having retired from
official connection with public affairs. Edmund Randolph took his place, and his was filled by William
Bradford of Pennsylvania.
The cream of the cream of society graced Philadelphia at this period. The Duke de Lauzun said that
in beauty, grace and intelligence, the women could
not be surpassed. The gay Marquis de Chastellux
had been enthusiastic in describing its dames and
demoiselles. Mrs. William Bingham was a queen in
the highest social circle. All that the United States
contained illustrious in statesmanship, was assembled
at the new capital. Dominie Robert Proud, Benjamin
Chew, Edward Shippen, Dr. Rush, the facetious Judge
Peters, the sage Rittenhouse, the humorist Francis
Hopkinson, Bishop White, Charles Brockden Brown,




30       WASHINGTON'S ADMINISTRATION.
were a few among them. The rules adopted by the
President and Mrs. Washington for receiving company
were nearly the same as in New York. Receptions
were given by the President every other Tuesday,
from three to four in the afternoon, in the large dining-room on the first floor. His hair was usually powdered and gathered behind in a silk bag, his coat and
breeches were of plain black velvet, with white or
pearl-colored vest, yellow gloves, a cocked hat in his
hand, silver knee and shoe-buckles, and a long sword
with a glittering steel hilt and scabbard of polished
white leather. He rarely shook hands, but bowed to
each visitor.  The door was closed at a quarter past
three; the gentlemen moved into a circle, and the
President went round exchanging a few words
with each; after which the visitors again came up,
bowed and retired. At Mrs. Washington's drawingrooms he did not consider the visits made to himself,
and he appeared as a private gentleman, without hat
or sword.
Mrs. Adams described the first levee, given on
Christmas day. She went attended by her son, and
met "the dazzling Mrs. Bingham and her beautiful
sisters, the Misses Allen, the Misses Chew, &c." Miss
Allen became Mrs. Greenleaf, and had the reputation
of superb beauty.  Mrs. Theodore Sedgwick had a
charming face, and an air of refinement and elegance;
"the magnificent Miss Wolcott from Connecticut, was
the boast of gentlemen from the Eastern States; and
Mrs. Knox, of course, was the observed of all observers."  Miss Sally McKean boasted of the party
as " brilliant beyond anything you can imagine; and




SOCIAL GAYETY.               31
though there was a great deal of extravagance, there
was so much of Philadelphia taste in everything, it
must have been confessed the most delightful occasion
of the kind ever known in this country."
Dinners, balls, and gayeties of every description,
followed each other during that memorable winter.
At Mr. Bingham's and Mr. Morris's houses the dinners
were sumptuous to a degree unrivalled by other social
leaders. One of the citizens wrote to a friend abroad.:
"' You have never seen anything like the frenzy that
has seized on the inhabitants here; they have been.
half mad ever since this city became the seat of government; and there is no limit to their prodigality.
The probability is that some families will find they
cannot support their dinners, suppers and losses at
loo, a great while."  "There have been a good many
delightful parties, and I have been at Chews, McKean's,
Clymer's, Dallas's, Bingham's, and a dozen other houses
lately. Among your more particular friends there is
more quiet and comfort, and it is not impossible that
the most truly respectable people are least heard of."
Mrs. Bingham was well fitted to lead in the fashionable world.  She gathered around her assemblages of aristocratic distinction and unquestioned
taste. Splendid in beauty, elegant in deportment,
sprightly, winning, and charming in manners, she had
additional gifts by which to enchant every one who
came within the sphere of her influence. Her social
pre-eminence is historical, and America has rarely
seen one like her. With all her advantages, personal, social and external, she was not envied, for she
had the spell to disarm jealousy, and to win the cold3




32       WASHINGTON'S ADMINISTRATION.
est heart. Her dress was marked by propriety and
good taste; her entertainments were delightful; and
her command of wealth, with her family connections,
gave her additional advantages. Mrs. Adams wrote:
"I have not seen a lady in England who can bear a
comparison with Mrs. Bingham, Mrs. Platt, or a Miss
Hamilton, who is a Philadelphia young lady."
Mrs. Bingham's cousin, Chief Justice Shippen, lived
in Fourth Street; another cousin, Mrs. Harrison, opposite the Bingham mansion; other relatives and
connections. resided in the neighborhood; and she
could fill her drawing-rooms with her own kin at
short notice,'at any time. Her style illustrated the
highest refinement; and it formed a contrast with the
simplicity of the circle in which Mrs. Washington was
regarded as the queen.,
Benjamin Chew was one of the most conspicuous
men of that period. He was seventy, but preserved
the distinguished air and high-bred courtesy of his
youth; as did Edward Shippen, eight years his junior,
now also called to a high judicial position.. Dr. Rush
was a resident of Philadelphia, but had little to do
with' the Presidential court. Judge Peters was a
great favorite from his wit and facetiousness. Francis Hopkinson, the genial humorist, had remarkable
powers of pleasing; the sage Rittenhouse, William
Bartram, and John Fitch, inventor of the steamboat, were then in the capital. That man of profound sense, Bishop White, was then in his meridian,
while Dr. Sproat touched the verge of human life;
there were several other clergymen of high moral
worth, though not possessed of extraordinary abili



MANNERS OF THE TIMES.           33
ties. Charles Brockden Brown and Dr. Milnor were
students, and John Randolph was the center of a club
of boon companions from the Southern States, members of which were Eppes, who afterwards married
Jefferson's youngest daughter, Thomas Marshall, a
brother of the great chief justice; Robert Rose,' who
married Madison's sister; Rutledge of South Carolina,
Bryan of Georgia, and many others.
Wansey, an English traveler, took breakfast with
the President in June, 1794, and noticed the simple
manners of the family. Mrs. Washington made tea
and coffee, and there was sliced tongue, dry toast and
bread and butter. Miss Eleanor Custis, a girl of sixteen, sat nearest the hostess, and next, her grand-son
George. One servant, who wore no livery, waited on
the table; and a silver urn for hot water was the only
expensive piece of table furniture. The President
was at that time in his sixty-third year, but looked
rather younger than Mrs. Washington.  She was
short, robust in figure and very plainly dressed; her
gray hair turned up under a plain cap. Some of her
drawing-rooms were criticised by the democrats as' introductory to the paraphernalia of courts."
Mrs. Adams greatly eulogized the old theatre in
Philadelphia, which was frequently visited by the
families of the President and Vice-President. The
new one was opened in 1794. The manager, Mr.
Wignell, fitted up the house with luxurious elegance.
Harwood, one of the actors, married Miss Bache, a
grand-daughter of Dr. Franklin. Another, Fennel,
entertained five generals at his house at one time,
and was on intimate terms with Governor Mifflin.




34       WASHINGTON'S ADMINISTRATION.
Mrs. Whitlock, one of the actresses, was a sister of
Mrs. Siddons. Wansey described the head-dresses of
the ladies at. the theatre as in the English style. The
younger appeared with their hair flowing in ringlets
on their shoulders. The gentlemen had round hats,
coats with high collars, and many coats of striped silk.
Mr. Hamilton resigned the Secretaryship of the
Treasury in 1795, being succeeded by General Wolcott. General Knox had also resigned, and had been
succeeded by Colonel Pickering. Thus the original
cabinet was entirely changed.  Mr. John. Jay had
been sent in April 1794, as envoy extraordinary to
the British Court. The British minister to this country was Mr. Hammond, a stout, rosy, handsome man,
wearing a powdered wig, who had married one of the
beautiful daughters of Andrew Allen, and had a country place near the city. Mr. Bradford, the Attorney
General, had also a house in the country.
The discovery of some practices to compass the
ruin of the administration, inl which Mr. Randolph
was involved, led to his enforced resignation. His
" Vindication" contained violent abuse of Washington,
which moved the Chief to such anger, that he was
said to have, uttered the strongest language, and
brought his fist down on the breakfast table with
such force as to cause a clatter with the cups and
plates, to the alarm of Mrs. Washington and her
family party, the Custises, Lewises, &c.
Fisher Ames made the greatest speech- ever yet
made in Congress, on the treaty negotiated by Mr,
Jay. John Adams wrote of this speech: "Judge Iredell and I happened to sit together.'How great he




WASHINGTON'S CUSTOMS.           35
is!' says Iredell:'How great he has been'!'He has
been noble,' said I. After some time Iredell breaks out
with'Bless my stars, I never heard anything so great
since I was born!''It is divine!' said I; and thus we
wen:t on with our interjections, not to say our tears, till
the end.  Not a dry eye, I believe in the house, except
some of the jackasses who had occasioned a necessity
of the oratory. These attempted to laugh; but their
visages grinned horrible ghastly smiles."
One of the ladies who remembered General Washington most accurately, was Mrs. Susan Wallace, the
daughter of Mrs. Mary Binney, who lived nearly
opposite the President. General Washington used
to walk out every fine day, attended by his secretary, and dressed in black, with a cocked hat. The
President's -coach, light carriage and chariot, were all
cream-colored, and painted with figures on the panels.
Two horses were driven when the General went to
church; four in going into the country; and six to
the Senate. He had white servants, dressed in liveries of white with scarlet or orange trimmings. Mrs.
Wallace-or Miss Susan Binney- was a young girl in
the later years of Washington's administration. Her
mother often visited Mrs. Washington, and when the
latter returned the call, which was on the third day,
her footman would run over, knock at Mrs. Binney's door, and announce his mistress, who would
come over with Mr. Lear, the secretary.  Susan
thought the great lady's manners very pleasant and
unceremonious, and like those of most Virginia ladies.
Miss Binney married a nephew of Mr. Bradford the
second Attorney General of the United States.




36       WASHINGTON' S ADMINISTRATION.
Mr..Richard Rush remembered the Chief going in
person to open the session of Congress, by a speech
according to his custom. X His carriage was white, with
medallion ornaments, and the liveries white turned
up with red; for at that time the display of equipages was rich and varied. The carriage passed
through an immense crowd, and when it stopped
Washington stepped out and ascended the steps of
the House of Representatives. Pausing on the upper
platform,-he turned and looked towards a carriage
that had followed the lead of his own. He wore a
suit of black velvet; his gray hair was powdered to
snowy whiteness; he had a dress sword at his side,
and his hat was in his hand. Every eye was riveted
on him, and profound stillness reigned in the crowd;
for every heart was full. Washington was waiting
for his secretary, who came up and handed him a
paper. As both entered the building the long repressed huzzas burst forth.
Many foreign visitors came during this administration to the United States, and distinguished refugees
were driven here by the French revolution. As
high-bred gentlemen they brought examples of
courtly usages, useful to the rising generation. One
of these illustrious exiles was Chataubriand, a nephew
of Malesherbes. He came in 1790 afid was two years
in the country. Another was Count Andriani, of
Milan, bearing to Washington an ode addressed to
him by the great poet Alfieri.  The Viscount de
Noailles, a brother-in-law of La Fayette, was a visitor
at Mrs. Washington's drawing-rooms, with his countryman M. Talon. When his means began to fail, Mr.




DISTINGUISHED FOREIGNERS.          37
Bingham gave him some third story rooms in a building at the end of his garden. Here he gave a dinner
to several noblemen, and the viands were cooked and
served by Mr. Bingham's servants.
Those remarkable Englishmen, Thomas Cooper,
Joseph Priestly and William Cobbett, began their
career in this country in 1794, and were in society.
Alexander Baring, afterwards Lord Ashburton, married the eldest daughter of Mr. Bingham. M. de
Talleyrand sought refuge here in 1794. HIe brought
letters from the Marquis of Landsdowne and Mrs.
Church, a sister of Mrs. Hamilton. The appearance
of this gentleman was as remarkable as his character.
He "C was very tall and had light hair, long and parted
in front; his eyes were blue and expressive, and he
had a sallow complexion; his mouth was wide and
coarse; his body'large and protuberant in front;' his
legs were singularly small and his feet deformed.
His manner was tranquil and watchful; and in some
respects vulgar and repulsive. A woman in New
York at whose house he dined frequently, said he
would rest his elbows on the table and talk with his
mouth full; he would cut the meat on his plate into
small pieces, pierce them with his fork till its prongs
were full, then thrust them into his mouth, and closing his teeth pull out the fork, leaving its freight in
his capacious jaws."
M. Fauchet-afterwards Baron- had succeeded M.
Genet as French minister. At the birthnight ball he
was placed by the managers on the right hand of the
President, which gave offence to the British minister
and the Spanish commissioners. Mr. Adet, who su



38     WWASHINGTON'S ADMINISTRATION.
perseded him, arrived in Philadelphia in the summer
of 1795.
The Duc de la Rochefoucault Liancourt arrived in
1794. He was about forty-five. His immense estates
had been confiscated; but he had some income. He
was intimate in the families of Judge Chew and General Knox.
Louis Philippe d' Orleans, who had taught geometry. in Switzerland under an assumed name, was sent
to this country by Gouverneur Morris in 1796, and
tin Philadelphia lodged in a single room over a barber's shop. He gave a dinner to several distinguished
gentlemen, and apologized for seating half of them on
the side of a bed. He was about twenty-three, with
a dark complexion, sunken eyes, and great dignity.
He was intimate in Mr. Bingham's family, and was
refused as a suitor to one of the daughters. His
brothers, the Duke de Montpensier and the Count de
Beaujolais, joined him the following year.
John Singleton Copely, son of the painter, was also
known in society as a quiet gentleman with pleasing
manners. The Duke of Kent was here -at the same
time. Mr. Liston succeeded Mr. Hammond as British
minister, and arrived in May 1796. Mrs. Cushing,
wife of the Judge of the Supreme Court, mentioned
a dinner at the President's in April, 1795, in company
with Mr. and Mrs. Hammond, and other eminent persons. Two of the foreign ladies, the wives of the
Spanish and Portuguese ministers, were brilliant with
diamonds. In June, 1796, Don Carlos Martinez, Marquis d' Yrujo, succeeded Jaudennes as Spanish minister. He married Sally McKean, daughter of the




QUEENS OF SOCIETY.            39
Chief Justice of Pennsylvania, a celebrated beauty.
Thus Philadelphia furnished wives for the envoys of
France, England:and Spain during this administration.
Kosciusko came to this country, about the close of
Washington's term, and met the Duc de Liancourt at
the house of General Gates.
The ladies most intimate with Mrs. Washington
were Mrs. Hamilton, Mrs. Knox, Mrs. Morris, Mrs.
Stewart, Mrs. Powell, Mrs. Bradford, Mrs. Otis, Miss
Ross, and others. The Duke de Liancourt spoke of
Mrs. Knox with warm admiration, and also of her
daughter and husband. He was their guest in Maine.
Mrs. Otis was the wife of the Secretary of the Senate. Her son, the great orator, married Sally Foster
in 1790. Mrs. Otis was remarkable for beauty, wit
and vivacity. Mrs. Bradford was the daughter of
Elias Boudinot. Mrs. Carroll was the daughter of Benjamin Chew, and with her.sister, Mrs. Henry Phillips,
was a great favorite with Washington. Mrs. John
Eager Howard was an elder sister. Dolly Payneafterwards Mrs. Todd-was one of the most charming, gay and fascinating women in the city, reigning
some years as a courted belle. She married James
Madison in 1794.  Robert Harper had married a
daughter of the elder Charles Carroll, and William
Smith a sister of John Rutledge. Aaron Burr was
now a senator, lived in style, and gave elegant entertainments. Mr. Jefferson also kept open house for
his friends. Wolcott had a circle consisting in great
part of New Englanders, and it was said to be a most
intellectual society. Wolcott's youngest sister was a
celebrated beauty, and married the eminent Chauncey




40       WASHINGTON'S ADMINISTRATION.
Goodrich. Mrs. Wolcott also was a lovely woman, of
very graceful manners.
Josiah Quincy figured prominently in the society
of the period, and was highly praised by Mrs. Adams.
She playfully recommended him to pay his addresses
to Nelly Custis, and adds that she thought him the
first match in the United States. Mr. Jeremiah Smith,
afterward one of the justices of the Supreme Court,
dining at Mr. Wolcott's, was captivated by the loveliness of Miss Eliza Ross of Maryland. She became
Mrs. Smith in due time. Eli Whitney, with his famous cotton-gin, was introduced to Wolcott about
this time.
The last formal levee of the President was crowded
with the beauty and fashion of the capital, and with
many distinguished visitors. The day before the
close of his administration, Washington gave a dinner to the President elect, the heads of departments,
&c. Among the guests were Mr. and Mrs. Liston,
the Marquis and Marchioness d' Yrujo, and the foreign ministers with their wives; Mr. and Mrs. Wolcott,
Mr. and Mrs. Pickering, Mr. and Mrs. McHenry, Mr.
and Mrs. Cushing, Mr. and Mrs. Bingham, Mr. Adams,
Mr. Hamilton, Mr. Jefferson, and Bishop White.
"During the dinner"-said the bishop, c" much hilarity
prevailed;- but on the removal of the cloth, having
filled his glass, the President rose and said:'Ladies
and gentlemen, this is the last time I shall drink your
health as a public man. I do it with sincerity, and
wishing you all possible happiness.' This put an end
to all pleasantry, and forced the tears into many eyes."
Washington declined a third term  of the Presi



SOCIETY A REFLEX OF POLITICS.       41
dency, and published his dignified "Farewell Address" before the sixty-fifth anniversary of his
birthday.  Mrs. Washington accompanied him  to
his beloved retirement at Mount Vernon, with her
grandchildren, Miss Eleanor Custis and George W. P.
Custis. The son of La Fayette was his preceptor.
At that time deportment in the drawing-room was
a reflex of temper in the Cabinet and the Senate;
and styles of living and conversation were continually referred to as evidences of political tendencies.
The statesmanship of Washington, Adams, Jay, Hamilton, Marshall, and their friends, was commented on
by the social habits of their adherents, as well as that
of Jefferson, Randolph, Giles, Paine, Madison, Monroe,
and the other opposition leaders.




JOHN ADAMS' ADMINISTRATION.
Mrs. Adams' Description of Her Philadelphia Residence-A Presidential Drawing-room —Mr. Adams at a Dinner at Mr. Bingham'sA Singular Incident-The Inauguration-Departure of General and
Mrs. Washington -Character of Mrs. Adams-Presiding in the Executive Mansion-Gayeties of the City-Routs and Tea and CardsGambling customary at Parties-An honored Visitor in Mrs. Adams'
Circle-Removal of the Capital to Washington-Descriptions of -the
"Wilderness City "-Mrs. Adams' Lively Picture-Inconveniences
and Privations —Marcia Burns a noted Belle-Married to J. P. Van
Ness-Samuel Dexter-Mrs. Adams in after Life.
IN the contest for the Presidency, Mr. Adams prevailed by a very small majority. Hence, Federalism
was still ascendant in the national councils, though
considerably depressed in those of some of the States.
The tone given by Washington was maintained by
his successor.
Mrs. John Adams, in a letter to her daughter. Mrs.
Smith, in November, 1790, describes her new  residence in Philadelphia:  "Bush Hill, as it is called,
though there remains neither bush nor shrub upon
it, and very few trees, except the pine grove behind
it-is a very beautiful place. But the grand and the
sublime I left at Richmond Hill: —the Schuylkill is no
more like the Hudson than I to Hercules. By accident the vessel with our furniture had arrived the




MRS. ADAMS' RESIDENCE.          43
day before, and Briesler was taking in the first load
into a house all green painted; the workmen there
with their brushes in hand. This was cold comfort in
a house, where I suppose no fire had been kindled
for several years, except in a back kitchen.
c "The next morning was pleasant, and I ventured
to come and take possession.; but what confusion!
Boxes, barrels, chairs, tables, trunks, &c. The first
object was to get fires; the next to get up beds; but
the cold damp rooms, the new paint, &c., proved almost
too much for me. On Sunday Thomas, was laid up
with the rheumatism; on Monday, I was obliged to
give Louisa an emetic; on Tuesday Mrs. Briesler was
taken with her old pain; and on Thursday Polly was
seized with a violent pleuritic fever. And every day,
the stormy ones excepted, from eleven till three the
house' is filled with ladies.. and gentlemen..  Mrs.
Bingham has been twice to see me. I think she is
snore amiable and beautiful than ever. Nancy Hamilton is the same unaffected. affable girl. we formerly
knew. Mrs. Lear was in to see me yesterday, and
assures me I am much better off than Mrs. Washington will be when she arrives.; for their house is not
likely to be completed this year. And when all is
done, it will not be Broadway. If New York wanted
any revenge- for the removal, the citizens might. be
glutted if they would come here, where every article
has become almost double in price and where it is
not possible for Congress and the appendages to be
half as well accommodated for a long time."
At the age of forty this daughter of a village clergyman and wife of a village lawyer had left her mnod



44       JOHNA ADAMS' ADMINISTRATION.
est home at Braintree to mingle in the shows of a
magnificent court, where her husband was ambassador, and where she maintained the social fame of her
country. Her native abilities and habitual elevation of feeling and demeanor, supplied the want of
that aristocratic cultivation illustrated in everything
around her, and commanded a higher consideration for
herself than the rank of the minister. She was four
years in Paris and London, and had but recently returned, when the election of Mr. Adams as Vice-President summoned him to New York. Mrs. Adams was
then in the maturity of her life and her mental powers.
She joined her daughter, Mrs. Smith, in New York.
Again she wrote:
"On Friday evening last I went with Charles to
the drawing-room. The room became full before I
left it, and the circle very brilliant. How could it be
otherwise, a constellation of beauties? Mrs. Bingham
has certainly given laws to the ladies here, in fashion
and elegance. Mrs. Powell, I join the general voice
in pronouncing a very interesting woman.  She is
aunt to Mrs. Bingham."
"I have received many invitations to tea and cards
in the European style, but have hitherto declined
them on account of my health," &c.
In June, 1795, Mr. Adams wrote to his wife:
"Yesterday I dined at Mr. Bingham's with a large
company. While at table a servant came to me, with
a message from Mr. Law, who desired to speak with
me in the ante-chamber.  I went out to him, and
found that he wanted to enquire of me concerning a
young lady of amiable manners and elegant educa



THE INAUGURATION.             45
tion, whom Mr. Law and Mr. Greenleaf had found in
Maryland in great distress and a little disarranged,
and brought with them to Philadelphia."
January 11, 1797:
"On Tuesday, when I waited as usual on Mrs.
Washington, after attending the levee, she congratulated me very complaisantly and affectionately on my
election to the Presidency, and went farther and said
more than I expected. She said it gave them great
pleasure to find that the votes had turned in my
favor."
At the inauguration of President Adams, he wrote:
"Chief Justice Ellsworth administered the oath,
and with great energy. Judges Cushing, Wilson,
and Iredell were present. Many ladies.... I believe scarcely a dry eye but Washington's."
Chestnut Street, in the vicinity of Congress Hall
was filled with an immense concourse on the day of
Washington's final retirement and the inauguration
of President Adams.  It was the Fourth of March
1797. f Mr. Adams, then sixty-one years of age, was
dressed in a full suit of pearl-colored broadcloth, and
wore his hair powdered.  At eleven Jefferson took
his oath as Vice-President before the Senate; at
twelve Washington entered the crowded Chamber of
Representatives, followed by Adams; both received
with enthusiastic cheers. The new President being
inaugurated, gave his address before the administration of the oath.  "At the close of the ceremony"
said President Duer, "as the venerable hero moved
towards the door, there was a rush from the gallery
that threatened the lives of those who were most




46       JOHN ADAMS' ADMINISTRATION.
eager to catch a last look.  Some of us effected our
escape by slipping down the pillars." As soon as Mr.
Adams had returned to his residence, Washington
made him a visit, cordially congratulated him, and
expressed a wish that his administration might be
happy, successful, and honorable. In the evening an
entertainment was given by the principal citizens at
the amphitheater. The leading public characters, including the foreign ministers, were present.
Mrs. Adams had written to her husband, Feb. 8th,
1797.  On that day the votes for President were
counted, and Mr. Adams, as Vice-President, was required to announce himself as President elect:
"You have this day to declare yourself head of a
nation.'And now, O Lord, my God, Thou hast made
Thy servant'ruler over the people. Give to him an
understanding heart, that he may know how, to go
out and come in before this great people; that he
may discern between good and bad. For who is able
to judge this thy so great a people!' were the words
of a royal sovereign; and not less applicable to him
wvho is invested with the Chief Magistracy of a nation, though he wear not a crown, nor the robes of
royalty."
"My feelings are not those of pride or ostentation
upon the occasion.  They are solemnized by a sense
of the obligations, the important trusts and numerous
duties connected' with it."
The retirement of General Washington from the
Presidency at the end of eight years, was the signal
for the great struggle between the two political parties which had been rapidly maturing their organiza



CHARACTER. OF MRS. ADAXMS.        47
tion during his administration. Mr. Adams' election
was by a bare majority of the electoral college, and
against the inclinations of one section even of that
party which supported him. The open defection of
that section at the next election, turned the scale
against him, and elevated Mr. Jefferson.
MIr. Adams wrote, 9th March, 1797:
"The President and Mrs. Washington go off this
morning for Mount Vernon. Yesterday afternoon he
came to make me his farewell visit, and requested
me, in his own name and Mrs. Washington's, to present' their respects' to Mrs. Adams. I believe that I
envied him more than he did me and with reason.
The house is to be cleared and cleaned, and I am to
go into it on Monday next if possible. I shall make a
small establishment for myself, for the present, and
wait your advice for ulterior arrangements."
Mrs. Adams appeared, as in other situations, the
accomplished woman, the pure-hearted patriot, and
the worthy partner of her husband's cares and honors.
In her elevated position, her grace and elegance, with
her charms of conversation, were rendered more attractive by her frank sincerity. Her close observation, discrimination of character, and clear judgment,
gave her an influence that failed not to be acknowledged. Her buoyant cheerfulness and affectionate
sympathy sustained the spirit of her husband, and it
was her part in social life to calm agitations, heal the
rankling wounds of pride, and pluck away the root of
bitterness.
When Adams became President, Philadelphia was
still the national capital; but in 1800, the seat of
4




48       JOHN ADAMS ADMINISTRATION.
government was transferred to Washington, in the
District of Columbia. The struggle of parties which
had begun in the first President's term, became more
violent in that of Mr. Adams; but the exemplary deportment of his wife went far to disarm even the
demon of party spirit. She enjoyed universal esteem
as well for the endowments of her mind as the correctness of her deportment; and the only form which
personal malevolence or party malignity could assume
to turn her virtues into weapons of annoyance, was
that of occasional insinuations that she exercised
over her husband an influence which extended even
to measures of public concernment. Those who could
not deny her tenderness and womanly grace, maintained that her chief distinction was a masculine
understanding.
The social circles of the metropolis were nearly the
same during the administration of Adams, as in the
preceding one. The increasing virulence of party
strife had some effect in disturbing the harmony of
society.
Mrs. Adams wrote of the gayeties of Philadelphia:
" I should spend a very dissipated winter if I were to
accept one-half of the invitations I receive, particularly to the routs or tea and cards."  There was a
prevalent passion for gambling; and at one time it
was not uncommon to hear that a lady or a gentleman had lost three or four hundred dollars at a sitting. Mrs. Adams pronounced the dancing "very
good," but says of the etiquette: "It was not to be
found."  "Friendliness," she adds, "is kept up among
the principal families who appear to live in great




PRIMITIVE STATE OF WASHINGTON.      49
harmony; and we meet in all places nearly the same
company."
Josiah Quincy was one of the honored visitors of
Mrs. Adams' circle. She wrote of him, on his arrival:
"This young man is a rare instance of hereditary
eloquence and ingenuity in the fourth generation.
He comes into life with every advantage of family,
fortune and education."
The site of Washington had been twelve years before designated as the future and permanent capital
of the country; yet it remained in a very primitive
state. Wolcott wrote to his wife: "There is one
good tavern, about forty rods from the capitol, and
several other houses are built or erecting; but I do
not see how the members of Congress can possibly
secure lodgings, unless they will consent to live
like scholars in a college, or monks in a monastery,
crowded ten or twenty in one house, and utterly secluded from society. There are few houses in any
one place, and most of them small, miserable huts,
which present an awful contrast to the public buildings. The people are poor, and as far as I can judge,
they live like fishes, by eating each other. You may
look in almost any direction, over an extent of
ground nearly as large as the city of New York, without seeing a fence or any object except brick-kilns
and temporary huts for laborers. There appears to
be a confident expectation that this place will soon
exceed any city in the world."
Gouverneur Morris wrote to a lady, a few months
later: —  We want nothing here but houses, cellars,
kitchens, well-informed men, amiable women and




50          JOHN ADAMS' ADMINISTRATION.
other little trifles of the kind to make our city perfect; for we can walk here as if in the fields and
woods, and, considering the hard frost, the air of the
city is very pure.  I enjoy more of it than any one
else; for my room is filled with smoke whenever the
door is shut."
Mrs. Adams gave a still livelier picture, writing to
her daughter.  "In  the  city  there  are  buildings
enough, if they were compact and finished, to accommodate  Congress and those attached to it; but as
they are and scattered as they are, I see no great
comfort for them.  The river, which runs up to Alexandria, is in full view from my window, and I see the
vessels as they pass and repass.. The house is on a
grand and superb scale, requiring about thirty servants to attend and keep the apartments in proper
order and perform the ordinary business of the house
and stables; an establishment very well proportioned
to the President's salary. The lighting the apartments from the kitchen to parlors and chambers is a
tax indeed, and the fires we are obliged to keep to
secure us from daily agues is another very cheering
comfort. Bells are wholly wanting; not one being
hung through the whole house, and promises are all
you can obtain. Yesterday I returned fifteen visits."
A letter- dated Washington, November, 1800, says:
" Woods are all you see from Baltimore, until you reach the city,
which is so only in name. No wood-cutters or carters to be had at any
rate. We are now indebted to a Pennsylvania wagon to bring us,
through the first clerk in the Treasury office, one cord and a half of
wood,' which is all we have for this house, where twelve fires are constantly required; and we are told the roads will soon be so bad it
cannot be drawn. Briesler procured two hundred bushels of coal, or




w~~~~~~~~~~~~~7








THE WILDERNESS CITY.                        53
we must have suffered.  This is the situation of almost every person.
The public officers have sent to Philadelphia for wood-cutters and
wagons."... "The vessel which has my clothes and other matters has
not arrived.  The ladies are impatient for a drawing-room: I have no
looking-glasses but dwarfs for this house; nor a twentieth part lamps
enough to light it; my tea china is more than half missing.".' "You can scarcely believe that here, in this wilderness city, I should
find my time so occupied as it is. My visitors,-some of them —come
three or four miles. The return of one of them is the work of one day:
most of the ladies reside in Georgetown, or in scattered parts of the city
at two and three miles' distance. Mrs. Otis, my nearest neighbor, is at
lodgings almost half a mile from me; Mrs. Senator Otis two miles."
"..   " We have not the least fence, yard or other convenience without,
and the great unfinished audience-room I make a drying-room of, to hang
the clothes in...   Six chambers are made comfortable; two are occupied
by the President and Mr. Shaw; two lower rooms,-one for a common
parlor, and one for a levee-room. Up stairs there is the oval room, which
is designed for the drawing-room, and has the crimson furniture in it."
Mrs. Adams made no claim  to learning; though her
reading had been extensive in the lighter departments
of literature, and she was well acquainted with the
poets in her own language. The soul shining through
her words gave  them   their great attraction; "the
spirit, ever equal to the occasion, whether a great or
a small one; a spirit inquisitive and  earnest in the
little details of life, as when she was in France and
England; playful, when she describes daily duties;
but rising to the call when the roar of cannon is in
her ears, or when she reproves her husband for not
knowing her better than to think her a coward and
to fear telling her bad news; or when she warns her
son that she'would rather he had found his grave in
the ocean, or that any untimely death should crop
him  in  his infant years, than  see him  an  immoral,
profligate, or graceless child."'




54       JOHN ADAMS' ADMINISTRATION.
One of the most admired belles in Washington at
the commnencemnent of the century was Miss Marcia
Burns, the daughter. of David Burns, whose estate,
inherited from Scottish ancestors, had covered the
site of the capital. Marcia lived with her widowed
mother; and the extraordinary attractions of her person, manners and character drew a throng of admirers
around the lovely heiress. She married John P. Van
Ness, in 1802.  She was prominent in Washington
society fifteen years, and her house was the resort
of a brilliant and distinguished circle. After the untimely death of her daughter, Mrs. Arthur Middleton,
Mrs. Van Ness retired from the world, devoting her
time to works of charity.*
Mr. Samuel Dexter was a member of the cabinet
under the Presidency of John Adams. Mrs. Adams
condoling with his wife after his death, calls him "a
great man, fallen in the zenith of his glory; and in
the estimation of his ancient friend, the ablest statesman of his age which his native State could boast.
Such an assemblage of powerful talents rarely meet
in one individual united to such an upright and independent mind, which soared above all low concerns,
and was elevated beyond all selfish considerations and
party views."
Mrs. Adams wrote Mr. Jefferson a kind letter of
condolence from Quincy, in May, 1804. It was to
her care his young daughter had been committed
when she went abroad, and Mrs. Adams "recalled
the tender scene of separation from me, when, with
* For memoirs of this lady and others of her family, see "The Queens of
American Society."




MRS. ADAMS' CHARACTER.           55
the strongest sensibility, she clung around my neck
and wet my bosom with her tears, saying,'Oh, now
I have learned to love you, why will they take me
from you?"' This letter led to an overture for a renewal of former friendship, and to some mutual
explanations. But Mrs. Adams was not easily mollified, and the correspondence was closed with her
feelings apparently unappeased by the concessions.
of one who had been a political adversary. Of Mrs.
Adams it was said: "Her lofty lineaments carried a
trace of the Puritan severity. They were those of
the helmed Minerva, and not of the caestus-girdled
Venus.  Her correspondence uniformly exhibits a
didactic personage, a little inclined to assume a sermnonizing attitude, as befitted the well-trained and
self-reliant daughter of a New England country
clergyman, and a little inclined, after the custom of
her people, to return thanks that she had no lot or
part in anything that was not of Massachusetts.
Perhaps the niasculineness of her understanding extended somewhat to the firmness of her temper.
But, towering above, and obscuring these minor angularities, she possessed a strength of intellectual and
moral character, which commands our unqualified admiration. When her New England frigidity gave
way and kindled into enthusiasm, it was not like
"light straw on fire," but "red-hot steel."  "Had
Mr. Adams been the victor and Mr. Jefferson the
vanquished, half the advances made by. the latter
would have sufficed. The overthrow of a President
had not then been made a common occurrence; circumstances rendered the downfall of Mr. Adams per



56       JOHN ADAMS' ADMINISTRATION.
sonally irritating and humiliating, and Mrs. Adams
felt morbidly for her husband."
Mrs. Adams lost none of the imposing features of
her character in the decline of life. A visitor at
Quincy described Mr. Adams as of sound mind and
heart, though trembling as with palsy. He joked and
laughed heartily, and talked freely about everything
and everybody; seeming a vast encyclopedia of written and unwritten knowledge, which gushed out on
every topic, and was mingled with lively anecdotes
and sallies of humor. His carelessness of language
suggested anything but pedantry: in short, the brave
old man was as delightful as he was commanding in
conversation. While the guest was enjoying the interview, an aged and stately woman came in, and he
was introduced to Mrs. Adams. Her cap of delicate
lace surrounded features still exhibiting intellect and
energy though possessing no beauty. She was dressed
in pure white, and there was that immaculate neatness in her appearance which gives to age almost the
sweetness of youth. With less warmth of manner
and sociability than Mr. Adams, she was gracious, and
her occasional remarks betrayed intellectual vigor
and strong sense. Her serenity and benign cheerfulness continued to the last; the shadows of a life full
of changes never deepened into gloom; and she was
still a messenger of blessing to all within her influence. In 1813, she lost her only daughter, Mrs. Wilham S. Smith. Mrs. Adams died, seventy-four years
of age, in October, 1818.




III.
JEFFERSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
The two great Parties-The Widow Skelton-The Musical CourtshipThe Bridal Festivities-The Snow-storm —Jefferson's EquipageFashions in Dress-The Inauguration-Absence of Court Ceremony-Vain Protest of Ladies against the abolition of LeveesSocial Etiquette-Complaint of the British Minister of uncivil
Treatment-Tom Moore's Indignation and Abuse of AmericansBurr's Treason-The President's Courtesy —The old Man at the
Ferry —The Kentuckian won over-Josiah Quincy's ExperiencesWhy the Barbers were Federalists-Personal Appearance of Jefferson and Madison-Hospitality at Monticello-" Country Gentleman" Style of Living-Domestic Life of the Ex-President-Illustrative Anecdotes-Death of Jefferson-Interesting Case of Virginia
Murray-Character of John Randolph-His Declamation and piquant Wit-The Irishman who sought his Acquaintance-Amusing
Anecdotes.
As events rolled on, one circumstance and another
conspired to mark more distinctly the lines between
the parties of the day, and at the period of the election of the third President of the United States, they
were very clearly defined throughout the Union,
under the names of Federalists and Democrats.  In
the first class were included Washington, Hamilton,
Jay, Pickering, Ames, Marshall, and others like them;
the last enrolled in its list Jefferson, Burr, George
Clinton, Madison, and  many  more  throughout the
States.




58       JEFFERSON S ADMINISTRATION.
"Jefferson's influence " said an English writer," was
greater than that of any other President except
Washington; and the reason is, that his convictions
went along with the national mind." Jefferson married, January 1, 1772, Mrs. Martha Skelton. She was
the widow of Bathurst Skelton and the daughter of
John Wayles of " The Forest" in Charles City County.
Wayles was an Englishman and had been three times
married; his last wife was Mrs. Martha Epes, widow
of Llewellin Epes, of Bermuda Hundred.  Martha
Wayles was born in 1749, and married Skelton in
1766. Her husband lived but two years. The widow,
scarcely advanced beyond her girlhood, was distinguished for beauty, accomplishments, and solid merit.
She was slight, but exquisitely formed, a little above
the medium hight. Her complexion was brilliant;
her large expressive eyes were a soft, rich hazel; her
luxuriant hair was golden auburn. She walked, rode,
danced, with inimitable grace and spirit; she sang,
and played the spinet and harpsichord, (the musical
instruments of the ladies of that day in Virginia)
with admirable skill. She was also well read and intelligent; she conversed agreeably, had excellent
sense and a lively play of fancy, and possessed a
disposition frank, ardent, and impulsive. She had
proved herself a true daughter of the Old Dominion
in housewifery, and was a clever business woman.
With these traits, added to rank and wealth, it is not
wonderful that she was a favorite in society, and that
her hand was sought by wooers far and near.
Tradition has preserved an anecdote, that on one
occasion two of Mrs. Skelton's admirers chanced to




THE WEDDING JOURNEY.            59
meet at the door of her house, and were shown into
a room where they heard her harpsichord and voice,
accompanied by Mr. Jefferson's violin and voice, in a
touching song. They listened for a stanza or two,
and then, convinced of the hopelessness of their errand, took their hats and retired. Another and less
probable version of the story is, that the three wooers
met on the door-stone, and agreed to "take turns,"
and that the interview should be decisive; that Jefferson led off, and that during his trial, the others
heard the music that settled the point!
The bridal festivities at the "Forest" were worthy
of Virginian hospitality. Rev. Mr. Davis, the officiating clergyman, and Rev. Mr. Coutts, shared the;fees,
and douceurs to fiddlers and servants occupy a page
of the pocket account-book.  The bride and bridegroom, when they set out for Monticello, had a light
snow-storm; and, as they advanced up the country,
had to leave the carriage, which stuck in the snow,
and proceed on horseback.  They stopped a short
time at Blenheim, eight miles from Monticello, the
seat of Col. Carter, where an overseer lived. At sunset they pursued their way through a mountain track,
the snow from eighteen inches to two feet deep. They
arrived at Monticello late at night, the fires all out
and the servants retired to their own houses. It was
a dreary welcome for the bride.
The only part of the house then habitable was a
small pavilion. Part of a bottle of wine, found on a
shelf behind some books, served the newly married
couple both for fire and supper. But their sunny tempers found all a source of diversion, and the dreari



60       JEFFERSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
ness was banished by song and merriment.  The next
day the snow was three feet deep. At this time Jefferson drove only a phaeton and two horses; though the
grandees drove six, and the middlemen four. Jefferson always had magnificent horses. When his saddle
horse was led out, if there was a spot on him that did
not shine like a mirror, he rubbed it with a white
handkerchief; and if this was soiled, the groom was
reprimanded. Mrs. Jefferson died in September, 1782.
The fashions of the commencement of tile century
in female dress, were significant. In June, for a headdress, a hat of white muslin was turned up in front
and ornamented with white ostrich feathers; a bow
of white ribbon fixed to the top of the crown, hung
down behind. Also al cap of pink crape and white
lace; a bunch of flowers in front, and one ostrich
feather. A hat of chip and crape was made in the
melon form, and ornamented with a rose and flower
in front. A cap of lace was thrown carelessly over the
head, and confined with a lace ruff which passed under the chin. The favorite colors were lilac, peagreen, pink and buff. Turbans, with white ostrich
feathers, were generally worn in dress. Pearls were
preferred in necklaces.
After Jefferson's election, he was anxious that the
ceremonies of his inauguration in the new Capitol at
Washington, March 4, 1801, should be as few and
simple as possible. But the feelings of his friends,
who had flocked to the city-then almost a wilderness, and difficult of approach —would not permit
him to go unattended to the Senate chamber to
take the oath of office. An English eye-witness




JEFFERSON'S INAUGURATION.        61
said: "His dress was of plain cloth, and he rode
on horseback to the Capitol without a single guard,
or even servant, in his train; dismounted without
assistance, and hitched the bridle of his horse to the
palisades."
On his entering the Senate chamber, Burr, who had
already taken the oath of office, gave up his chair,
and took his seat on the right. On the left sat ChiefJustice Marshall, who administered the oath; but
two imposing figures were absent-the late President
of the Senate and the late Speaker of the House of
Representatives. Mr. Adams had abruptly left the
city early in the morning; and Sedgwick's absence
was unexplained.
After Mr. Jefferson had delivered his inaugural
address, listened to by the usual crowd of officials,
friends and spectators, he was sworn into office by
the Chief Justice.  On the 6th March he wrote to
John Dickinson: 1" The storm through which we have
passed has been tremendous indeed. The tough sides
of our Argosie have been thoroughly tried. Her
strength has stood the waves into which she was
steered with a view to sink her. We shall put her
on her republican tack, and she will now show, by
the beauty of her motion, the skill of her builders."
The day before, the President had nominated James
Madison, Secretary of State; Henry Dearborn of
Massachusetts, Secretary of War; and Levi Lincoln
of Massachusetts, Attorney General. In May, Albert
Gallatin of Pennsylvania, was appointed Secretary
of the Treasury; Samuel and Robert Smith of Maryland, successively occupied the post of Secretary of




62       JEFFERSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
the Navy; Gideon Granger of Connecticut, being
appointed Postmaster General.
Albert Gallatin was a man of profound logical and
clear understanding; his forte lay in political economy, and particularly; in the figures, statistics, and
philosophy of finance. He did not consider the Treasury Department a huge turtle to constantly lay eggs
in the sand to feed those carnivorous political birds
which might otherwise flesh their hungry beaks in
the carcass of the administration. Nor did he consider it like the turtle of the mythology of certain
Indian tribes, which carries the world on its back.
His integrity was above suspicion; and in every respect he was singularly adapted to execute the precise line of policy the new President desired to carry
into the Treasury Department.
Jefferson was anxious that the American court
should be like its government, characterized by simplicity and dignity. A foreign functionary who had
a high idea of his own importance and was a great
stickler for etiquette, which Mr. Jefferson detested,
went one morning to pay him a visit of ceremony;
he found the philosopher deliberately drawing on his
boot, and prepared with a shoe-brush to give it a
polishing touch with his own hands.
The foreign ambassador was shocked at the sight
of so degrading an occupation in the ruler of America. The.President apologized for his negligence in
not being prepared for the honor of his visit; stating
that he was not aware of his intention to call on him,
and that, being a plain man, he did not like to put
his servants to unnecessary trouble. The ambassador




LEVEES ABOLISHED.            63
retired entirely satisfied in his own mind that no government could long exist, the head of which was his
own shoe-black and under which so little attention
was paid to etiquette.
Jefferson wrote to his daughter-May 28th, 1801to urge expedition in her preparations fobr removal
to Washington. He says: "Mr. and Mrs. Madison
stayed with me about three weeks till they could get
ready a house to receive them. This has given me
an opportunity of making some acquaintance with
the ladies here. We shall certainly have a very
agreeable and worthy society. It would make them
as well as myself very happy could I always have
yourself or your sister here." He had already declared, among the established points and maxims of
his administration,. that "Levees are done away."
His two public days for the reception of company
were the first of January and the fourth of July;
when his doors were thrown open to all who chose
to enter them. At other times all who wished were
permitted to call upon him.
Some of the fashionables-chiefly ladies-had come
to the conclusion that the abolition of levees was inexpedient. Accordingly, they mustered in force, at
the usual time, at the presidential mansion.  The
President soon returned from his ride on horseback,
and learning what an extraordinary number of ladies
had called, and at once comprehending their motive,
he went immediately, hat in hand, spurs on, and soiled
with dust, into their midst.  He expressed himself
overjoyed at such a happy coincidence; and never
had he been seen so cordial and attentive; allowing




64       JEFFERSON S ADMINISTRATION.
no one to go without urging her to stay longer. The
fair visitors finally departed, laughing heartily at the
result of their experiment. It was never repeated.
It was one of the regulations of the social etiquette
agreed on by the President and his Cabinet, that residents should pay the first visit to strangers, and first
comers to later comers, except in the case of foreign
ministers, who were to pay the first visit to the ministers of the nation.  All who were brought together
in society were esteemed on a perfect equality. The
families of foreign ministers were to receive the first
visit from those of the national ministers, and from
other residents.  No title being admitted, those of
foreigners gave no precedence, nor did any difference of grade among the diplomatic members. To
maintain this principle of equality, and prevent the
growth of precedence out of courtesy, the members
of the executive were to practise and recommend an
adherence to the ancient usage of the country-of
gentlemen in mass giving precedence to the ladies in
mass in passing from one apartment into another.
Washington at this time was considered unhealthy,
even for acclimated Virginians, for more than two
months of the autumn. During August and September, people had to take refuge in climates rendered
safer by their habits and confidence.
The birthday of Mr. Jefferson was never publicly
known till after his death. He refused every proposal to have it celebrated as an anniversary, not
wishing'"to transfer the honors and veneration for
the great birthday of our Republic to any individual."
It was touching to see how constantly, in the midst




JEFFERSON S DAUGHTERS.           65
of public business, Mr. Jefferson's heart turned to his
absent daughters. His letters to them prove this.
Ile made two visits every year to Monticello: a short
one in early spring, and a longer one in the latter
part of summer; always stopping at Edgehill, where
Mrs. Eppes, his youngest daughter, lived. She was
in delicate health for some years and died in April,
1804. She had been, shortly before, carried to Monticello in a litter borne by men.  Her father, left
alone for some hours after her death, was found with
the Bible in his hands. He who had been so often
and so harshly accused of unbelief, in his hour of
intense affliction sought and found consolation in the
sacred volume.
The two daughters had visited the President in
Washington in the winter of 1802-3. The younger
never went there again; but Mrs. Randolph, with
her children, passed some time there in the winter of
1805-6. Mrs. Eppes was singularly beautiful; and
she was high-principled, just and generous. Her temper was mild, but saddened by ill health in her later
years. Her sister possessed inexhaustible sweetness,
kindness, patience and self-devotion, being superior
in native powers of intellect. Jefferson was loved by
both daughters with the utmost devotion, and they
considered his affection as the great good of their
lives. Mrs. T. Eston Randolph, the sister of the one
who married Jefferson's daughter, was an exemplary
and admirable woman.
Mr. Jefferson felt his child's death with terrible
keenness.  He wrote to his friend  Gov. Page:
" Others may lose of their abundance; but I of my




66       JEFFERSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
want, have lost even the half of all I had. My evening prospects now hang on the slender thread of a
single life."
The British minister, Mr. Merry, complained to Mr.
Josiah Quincy of uncivil treatment received from
President Jefferson. On presenting his credentials,
he asked Mr. Madison, the Secretary of State, to introduce him officially, and was accompanied by him
on the day and hour appointed, to the mansion house.
The ambassador wore his full official costume, as the
etiquette of his place required. They found the hall
of audience empty, and Mr. Madison led the way to
the President's study, through an entry, in which
they met Mr. Jefferson, and in this narrow space the
presentation was made.  The President was "not
merely in an undress, but actually standing in slippers down at the heels, and both pantaloons, coat and
under-clothes indicative of an indifference to appearance."  Mr. Merry regarded the whole scene as prepared and intended to be disrespectful to him and.
the sovereign he represented.  This occurrence was
talked of by the opponents of the President to his
disparagement, as if he sought unduly the gratification of the democracy.
The Irish poet, Tom Moore, wrote to his mother
from Baltimore in June, 1804: "I stopped at Washington with Mr. and Mrs. Merry for nearly a week.
They have been treated with the most pointed incivility by the present democratic President, Mr. Jefferson; and it is only the precarious situation of Great
Britain which could possibly induce it to overlook
such indecent, though at the same time petty hostil



THE INSULTED MINISTER.           67
ity. I was presented by Mr. Merry to both the Secretary of State and the President."
This "hostility" was thus manifested: Mr. and Mrs.
Merry were invited to dine at the President's, and
when dinner was announced, Mr. Jefferson chanced
to be standing by and talking with Mrs. Madison, at
some distance from Mrs. Merry. He escorted Mrs.
Madison to the table, and the angry ambassador
deemed it the next thing to an insult, making such
a stir about it that Mr. Madison wrote to Mr. Monroe,
who had succeeded Mr. King as minister to England,
apprising hinm of the facts, to enable him to answer
an expected call of the British government for official explanations! Monroe got his first information
from a friendly British undersecretary; and he was
delighted: for not long before, the wife of an English
undersecretary had been given precedence over his
own wife, and under similar circumstances. But no
call was made for explanations, and Mrs. Merry tossed
her head without shaking the peace of two nations.
Merry, however, never forgot the " incivility," though
he and his -friends knew that, by an express regulation at the executive palace, all etiquette in respect
to official precedence was formally abolished.  Mr.
Monroe often told the story, and a better one of
amusing circumstances that took place at an official
dinner, where he was ranked below the ministers of
sundry German States c"about half as big, by Jove,
Sir! as our county of Albemarle." From the time
of that offense against her dignity, Mrs. Merry avoided
the Presidential mansion; and her husband only went
there officially. The President felt a good-natured




68       JEFFERSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
wish to put an end to this frivolous matter; and he
inquired of the Swedish ambassador if Mr. and Mrs.
Merry would accept an invitation to a family dinner.
The invitation was sent written in the President's
own hand. The minister replied by addressing the
Secretary of State to know whether he was invited in
his private or his official capacity; if in the one, he
must obtain the permission of his sovereign; if in the
other, he must receive an assurance in advance that
he would be treated as became his position.
Tom Moore, then twenty-four years old, had as yet
published nothing which had crossed the Atlantic but
" gentle Little's moral song," and Mr. Jefferson had
no idea that he stood in the presence of the young
Catullus of his day.  Standing in his height of six
feet two and a half inches, the President looked
down on the perfumed little Adonis, spoke a word to
him and gave him no further attention. Moore, after
this unflattering reception, fell to lampooning the
President and almost everything American. Some of
his scurrilous attacks fell into the hands of Mr. Burwell, formerly the President's private secretary, who
carried them to Mrs. Randolph. The gentle Martha
was roused by such insults from a man who had been
introduced into society and patronized by the British
minister. They were indignant, and agreed that it
was proper to place the matter before the President.
This was done at Monticello, while Jefferson was reading in his library. He glanced through the obnoxious passages pointed out, looked at his daughter
and his friend and burst into a clear, hearty laugh,
in which they joined after a moment of reflection.




CLAY'S RISING FAME-TRUE COURTESY.    69
When Moore's Irish melodies appeared years afterwards, and the book was put into Jefferson's hands,
"Why this," he said, "is the little man who satirized
me so!"  He read on: he had always sympathized
with the Irish patriots: and presently exclaimed:
"Why, he is a poet, after all!"  Henceforth the bard
of Erin shared with Burns the hours of the retired
statesman.
The President was sixty-two when his second inauguration took place, on the 4th of March, 1805.
That autumn was made a memorable epoch in Arlerican history by the treasonable projects of Aaron
Burr.  One of Burr's counsel was Henry Clay,
chosen United States Senator in' November, to fill
the vacancy occasioned by the resignation of Adair.
His talents, address and popularity were even then
acknowledged, and the star of his professional and
political greatness had begun to beam splendidly on
the western horizon. Another of Burr's friends was
Luther Martin of Maryland, described as an able, but
coarse man, with violent and unrestrained passions.
One day the President and his eldest grandson
were driving in a carriage. A stranger slave in the
road took off his hat and bowed to them; Jefferson
according to his invariable custom, touched his hat
and bowed. The grandson made no return to the salutation; and Jefferson turning to him said, 4" Thomas,
do you permit a slave to be more of a gentleman than
yourself?"
About 1807, while on a visit at his home, the President accompanied two of his nephews on horseback
to Charlottesville. Ile invited two or three gentle



70       JEFFERSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
men of that place to dine at Monticello, and returned
homeward, Mr. Jefferson and the young men a little
in advance. A shower had fallen, and when they
came to Moore's Creek, the water was up to the
saddle-girths. A Western countryman was sitting on
the bank with a saddle in his hands. IIe waited till
all the party had entered the stream but Mr. Jefferson, and then asked him for a ride across. The President reined up to a stone, bade him mount, and carried him to the opposite bank. The party in the
rear, in a few moments overtaking the pedestrian
going on at a sturdy pace, asked him why he let the
young men pass and asked the elder gentleman to
carry him over. "Wall," replied the Kentucky man,
"I if you want to know, I'll tell you. I reckon a man
carries yes or no in his face. The young chaps' faces
said no; the old'un's said yes."
"It isn't every man that would have asked the
President of the United States for a ride behind him,"
observed the other. "You don't say that was Tom
Jefferson, do you!" cried the Kentuckian, adding,
"Ile's a  -  fine old fellow any way."  Then he
burst into a loud laugh, and said:  "What do you suppose my wife Polly will say when I get back to Boone
County, and tell her I've rid behind Jefferson? She'll
say I voted for the right man!"
One day the President, riding along the bank of
the Rivanne, saw a ragged old man waiting at a ford
opposite.  le rode across, took him up behind and
brought him over. On another occasion, riding towards Washington, he overtook a working man of
respectable appearance, on foot. To draw up and sa



TALKING WITH STRANGERS.           71
lute him was an habitual civility. A conversation on
political topics ensued, and the man strongly censured
certain acts of the administration. Finally he alluded
to some of the gross personal stories of Callender
against the President. "c Do you know Mr. Jefferson
personally?" asked the equestrian.  " "No, nor don't
want to," replied the other. "But is it fair play to
repeat such stories, and then not dare to meet the
subject of them face to face?"
The man was a Kentuckian-a country merchant,
and at the word "dare " he promptly responded; "I
will never shrink from meeting Mr. Jefferson if he
comes in my way."
"Will you go to his house to-morrow, and be introduced to him, if I will meet you there!" "I will,"
was the reply  and the President rode on. Next day
the stranger sent in his card at the palace. When he
saw the President, he said "I have called, Mr. Jefferson, to apologize for having said to a stranger    "
Here the President laughingly interrupted him with"hard things of an imaginary personage, who is no
relation of mine!" All attempts at explanation were
laughingly parried, and animated conversation on another subject was introduced. When the servant announced dinner, the President insisted on his staying.
Afterwards this Kentuckian used to caution his young
people not to be too free in talking with strangers,
while he and his family were fiery Jeffersonians.
Josiah Quincy wrote in Washington: "My wife was
the ornament and attraction of my establishment.
She was admired for her manners and mind, was most
kindly received by Mrs. Madison at the palace, and




72       JEFFERSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
enjoyed the society and friendship of a select circleamong whom were the families of Peter, Lee, Teacle,
Smith, Tayloe, Cranch, &c." Mr. Quincy described
the city as exceedingly dull and "distracted with
every species of personality and violence." A senator
told Mr. Goodrich that at this time all the barbers in
Washington were federalists, because the leaders of
that party in Congress wore powder and long queues,
which were dressed, of course, every day. The democrats wore short hair, or small queues, tied up carelessly with a ribbon. One day a barber who was
shaving the senator, suddenly burst out against the
nomination of Madison by the democratic party.
"What Presidents we might have, sir! Look at Daggett, of Connecticut, and Stockton, of New Jersey,
with queues as big as your wrist, and powdered every
day, like real gentlemen as they are! But this little
Jim Madison, with a queue no bigger than a pipestem! Sir, it is enough to make a man foreswear his
country!"
The Presidential election of 1808 was conducted
with extreme heat, particularly in the Eastern States.
Jefferson and Madison were friends.  The latter was
in the full meridian of manhood at fifty-eight; Jeffersonr at sixty-six had not passed the mellow autumn
of old age. His visitors at Monticello were numerous
and often intrusive. Strangers would plant themselves in the passage between his study and diningroom, waiting for him to pass to his dinner. A woman
once broke a window-pane of the house with her parasol, to get a better view of him. When sitting in the
shade of his porticoes, to enjoy the cool evening air,




THE QUARREL AT THE FERRY.            73
parties of men and women would approach within a
dozen yards. In 1810, the house servants, including
children, were thirty-seven.  The general mode of
traveling at that time in Virginia was on horseback,
or by carriages drawn by at least two horses; and
servants generally accompanied travelers. Mrs. Randolph, who presided over the domestic establishment
at Monticello, once said she had been called on to
provide beds over night for fifty guests.
Martha Jefferson used to relate how once, when
traveling with her father, they came to a ferry, and
found the two boatmen engaged in a violent quarrel.
They took the travelers on board, and rowed silently
to the middle of the stream; when the contention
broke out afresh. The boat drifted swiftly towards
some dangerous rapids. Mr. Jefferson spoke to them
calmly; then sternly; then he suddenly started up
with "a face like a lion," and, with a hand on each
of the boatmren, bade them in tones of thunder, row
for their lives, or he would pitch them into the stream.
They did pull for their lives, till they reached the
shore.
It will be remembered that Jefferson expired on
the 4th of July, 1826, the first semi-centennial anniversary.  Hundreds of miles away, John Adams' last
sands too were running out.
The interesting case of Virginia Murray has never
been mentioned in history. Her father, Lord Dunmore, was colonial governor of Virginia. Her letter
to President Jefferson, tells the story:
" SIR,-I am at a loss how to begin a letter in the which I am
desirous of stating claims that may long have been forgotten, but which




74           JEFFERSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
I think no time can really annihilate, until fulfilment has followed the
promise. I imagine that you must have heard that during my father's,
the late Lord Dunmore's, residence in America, I was born, and that the
Assembly, then sitting at Williamsburg, requested I might be their goddaughter, and christened by the name of Virginia; which request being
complied with, they purposed providing for me in a manner suitable to the
honor they conferred upon me, and to the responsibility they had taken
on themselves. I was accordingly christened as the god-daughter of that
Assembly, and named after the State. Events have since occurred
which in some measure may have altered the intentions then expressed
in my favor. These were (so I have understood) that a sum of money
should be settled upon me, which, by accumulating during my minority,
would make up the sum of one hundred thousand pounds when I became
of age.  It is true many changes may have taken place in America,
but that fact still remains the same. I am still the god-daughter of
the Virginians.  By being that, may I not flatter myself I have some
claims upon their benevolence, if not upon their justice? May I not
ask the gentlemen of that State, especially you, Sir, their Governor, to
fulfil in some respects the engagements entered into by their predecessors? Your fathers promised mine that I should become their charge.
I am totally unprovided for; for my father died without making a will.
My brothers are married, having families of their own; and not being
bound to do anything for me, they regard with indifference my unprotected and neglected situation. Perhaps I ought not to mention this
circumstance as a proper inducement for you to act upon; nor would I,
were it not my excuse for wishing to remind you of the claims I now
advance. I hope you will feel my right to your favor and protection
to be founded on the promises made by your own fathers, and in the
situation in which I stand with regard to the State of Virginia.  You
will ask, Sir, why my appeal to your generosity and justice has been sotardy?  While my father lived, I lived under his protection and guidance. He had incurred the displeasure of the Virginians, and he feared
an application for me then would have seemed like one from him.
At his decease I become a free agent. I had taken no part which
could displease my god-fathers; and myself remained what the Assembly had made me-their god-daughter, consequently their charge.
I wish particularly to enforce my dependence upon your bounty; for I
feel hopes revive which owe their birth to your honor and generosity,




VIRGINIA'S GOD-DAUGHTER.                75
and to that of the State whose representative I now address. Now that
my father is no more, I am certain they and you will remember what
merited your esteem in his character and conduct, and forget that which
estranged your hearts from so honorable a man.  But should you not,
you are too just to visit what you may deem the sins of the father upon
his luckless daughter. I am, Sir, your obt., etc.,
" VIRGINIA MURRAY,
" Trafalgar Place, Opposite Cumberland Gate, Oxford Road, London."
This letter was. forwarded to Mr. Monroe, then
Governor of Virginia.  Mr. Monroe submitted the
touching appeal to the Legislature of the State; but
it does not appear that any action resulted, or that
the pledge of the Colonial Assembly was regarded as
binding.
One of the most remarkable characters in American
history and society was John Randolph of Roanoke.
It is probable that his peculiarities gave a degree of
extraneous and scenic effect to his speeches. "His
pride, his isolation, his rich appointments, his claims
to a baronial family consequence, his aristocratic assumption of superiority, his capricious and dangerous
temper, all set him  apart, and made him  a popular
marvel. There was something in his general aspect
which reminded one of his lineage from the royal
Powhattan. His eye was piercingly brilliant. His
invective was tremendous; it scorched and consumed
its victim  like fiery  rain.   It was when  passion
mounted to its zenith that his intellect threw out its
finest coruscations like meteoric showers. His gaunt
frame, his cadaverous countenance, a voice shrill yet
strangely sweet at times, an eye that seemed gifted
with power to read the secrets of the heart-were
accesories to his forcible oratory.  He pointed his




76        JEFFERSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
sarcasm by extending his long, thin elfish forefinger
towards the offender, keeping it quivering till the
climax of his scorn was reached, when it rested immovably, as if at that moment the death shot flashed
from it to the victim's heart."
Randolph was once opposing a motion for an appropriation for the public buildings. He rose, and in
his shrill, clear voice, moved to refer the subject to
the committee on unfinished business. A workman in
the gallery, irritated at the opposition to what was
to constitute his support, cried out in a voice sometlling like Mr. Randolph's: "c And I move, Mr. Speaker,
that the gentleman be referred to the same committee." This retort upon the ill-formed orator set the
whole house in a roar.  The sergeant-at-arnms was
despatched to arrest the offender; but he had disappeared.
An Irishman just arrived in the country was anxious
to become acquainted with the eccentric orator of
Roanoke.  He undertook to introduce himself, and
approached him with-" Have I the honor of addressing the distinguished Americafi orator, Mr. Randolph?"
"C That is an honor I allow only to those with whom
I am acquainted," replied Randolph, in his sarcastic
tone. After some conversation, he asked the Irishman how long he had been in the country. He replied: "I have been but a short time in the country;
have had the honor to be introduced to General W.,
Colonel B., Major C. and numerous other officers.
Your revolutionary war, Mr. Randolph, must have
been very unfortunate; indeed, I may say, disastrous, for it seems to have cut off all the privates,




ANECDOTE OF RANDOLPH.            77
and left nothing but officers behind." Randolph was
so much pleased with his remarks that he invited
him to call and see him at his lodgings.
Randolph's first and only love was unfortunate.
The lady was Miss Ward, of Wintapeke. For thirty
years the statesman worshiped the idol of his youth,
and no other image was ever enshrined in his heart.
He had a great abhorrence of debt. On one occasion,
in Congress, he suddenly interrupted himself in a
speech on some other subject, and exclaimed: "Mr.
Speaker, I have discovered the philosopher's stone!
It is this, Sir: Pay as you go! Pay as you go!" In
a letter he says: " The muck-worm whose mind knows
no other work than money-keeping or money-getting,
is an object of pity and contempt. I hold it essential to purity, -dignity and pride of character that
every man's expenses should bear a due relation
to his means and prospects in life." One day, while
he was speaking, the Speaker began privately to
write a letter. Randolph perceived it, and stopped
short in the middle of a sentence.  The Speaker,
presently aroused by the stillness, inquired whether
the honorable gentleman from Virginia had finished
his speech. "Mr. Speaker," returned Randolph, in
his high falsetto voice, and pointing his long forefinger, "I was waiting until you had finished that
letter."
His last speech in the Senate, and the master effort
of his life, was in reply to Rufus King on the Missouri
question. Hle referred to the new member as "the
member from Maryland:" and then pausing, as if not
certain, added, " I believe he is from Maryland." This




78       JEFFERSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
implied doubt amused Mr. Pinkney, who went over
to Mr. Randolph's seat, introduced himself, and assure-d him  that he was " from Maryland."  They
became close friends afterwards; and Randolph in
announcing his death, called him 1" the boast of Maryland, and the pride of the United States."
His device to put down Barnabas Bidwell, a Massachusetts lawyer and an active democratic politician,
was curious. Randolph at Bidwell's maiden speech,
was dressed in his usual morning costume,-his skeleton legs cased in tight-fitting leather breeches and
top boots, with a blue riding coat, the thick buckskin
gloves from which he was never parted, and a heavily
loaded riding whip in his hand.  After listening
attentively for about a quarter of an hour, he rose
deliberately, settled his hat on his head, and walked
slowly out of the House, striking the handle of his
whip emphatically upon the palm of his left hand,
and regarding poor Bidwell as he passed him with a
look of insolent contempt.
On one occasion, John Randolph resorted to a
curious and novel stratagem to gain the attention of
the House. After midnight, when most of the members had composed themselves to sleep as they best
might, Randolph began to utter a disconnected farrago of long words, apropos to nothing in the universe.
Gradually the whole House awoke, and looked with
wondering eyes upon the orator, supposing him mad.
His purpose thus answered, he turned suddenly on
an honest Dutch member fromn New York, who never
ventured anything more than a zealous yea or nay;
pointed his slow, unmoving finger at him, and cried




ANECDOTE OF RANDOLPH.           79
in his shrill, deliberate tones: "And now, Mr. Speaker,
the honorable gentleman from New York denies the
truth of what I have been saying!" " Good gracious! "
sputtered forth the mystified Dutchman; "Mr. Speaker,
I have done nothing of the kind!" The House, now
thoroughly aroused, shook with inextinguishable
laughter.
Love of opposition and change was a disease of
his organization. He followed Jefferson devotedly
for years, and then broke off on a trifling provocation. He loved Mr. Madison, and soon fiercely hated
and denounced him.  He was enthusiastic in his
admiration of Monroe, and afterwards poured out
contemptuous epithets upon him. He was one of
the earliest supporters of Gen. Jackson, and one of
the.first to abandon him. He insulted Mr. Clay in
the Senate, fought with him; and then rushed in a
dying state across the country as fast as his horses
could- be driven, to be reconciled to him. He clung
to Macon, Tazewell, and a little knot of friends
through all; but had one of them been elected
President, Randolph would probably have denounced
him within six months of his inauguration. Jefferson was his first and longest official love.




IV.
MADISON'S ADMINISTRATION.
Condition of the City of Washington-Heterogeneous Elements of
Society —Mrs. Madison's Influence-Accession to the PresidencyBeauty and Fashion at the Drawing-rooms-The Office Seeker satisfied with old Clothes-First Visit of William C. Preston to the
White House-A Bashful Boy-The Grace and Beauty of the Hostess-Her maternal Claim to the Lad-His Introduction to the
Belles-Miss Mayo (afterwards Mrs. Scott) and Miss Coles-The
Cavalier made useful-Domestic Habits of the Rulers-The raw
Youth at the Reception-Remarkable Statesmen of the TimeThe War with Great Britain-Details of Dr. Beans' AdventureFrancis Key to the Rescue-" The Star-Spangled Banner "-The
News of Peace-Brilliant Party and queenly Beauty of the Hostess
-Court Etiquette towards Foreigners.
Mn. MADISON, being appointed Secretary of State,
removed to Washington with his family in April,
1801. The metropolis was then almost a wilderness.
The President's house stood unenclosed on a piece of
waste, barren ground, separated from the' Capitol by
a marsh. The incomplete building stood amid rough
masses of stone and other materials, and was half
hidden by venerable oaks. Thick groves of forest
trees, with wide plains, and here and there a house,
were to be seen on every side. The proprietors of
the grounds retained their rural residences and habits
of living; while the new-comers brought the manners
and customs of their respective states: Mr. Madison




INFLUENCE OF MRS. MADISON.         81
those of Virginia, Mr. Gallatin of Pennsylvania, Gen.
Dearborn of Massachusetts and-Robert Smith of Maryland. Never were more heterogeneous elements for
society brought together. There were no established
fashions; no sympathy of tastes and habits; no bond
of union growing out of previous acquaintance. The
motley company was thrown into intimate relations,
while each felt strange and uncomfortable, and the'
necessity of mutual aid taught them to feel for each:
other. On account of the absence of Jefferson's daughters, Mrs. Madison always presided in the President's
house when ladies were among the visitors, and a
liberal hospitality was exercised. Next to the President's, the house of the Secretary of State received
most company. The charming hostess was so frank
and cordial in her manners, that her frequent parties;
were thoroughly enjoyed. Not only the governmental
officers, the Senators, Representatives and citizens,
but the foreign ministers and strangers from every
part of the world, came to her receptions, and mingled
with a cordiality, freedom and gayety rarely to be
found in social assemblages. No bitter political aniinosities could show themselves in the atmosphere of
this genial home. Even persons hostile to each other,
who avoided a meeting elsewhere, would come to Mrs.
Madison's house forgetful of their causes of disagreement, subdued by her gracious urbanity and spirit
of conciliation to moderation and forbearance. The
dinners were always abundant and sumptuous, more,
however, in the Virginian style than in the European.
For eight years this gentle influence exercised its
sway, and the civilities received and reciprocated
6




82         MADISON'S ADMINISTRATION.
were productive of excellent effect. The regulation
of social intercourse devolved upon Mrs. Madison in
her double hostess-ship; yet it does not appear that
misconstruction or envy ever assailed her. She won
the admiration and approbation of all. Though she
saw a continued round of company, her dress was
simple and her house was plainly furnished. She
economized in these matters, while her hospitality
and charity were bounteously liberal.
The canvassing for a President to succeed Mr. Jefferson, roused the spirit of competition and party
prejudice. Political intrigues infused their bitterness
into the intercourse of society, and as the partisans
of the several candidates did not scruple to employ
calumnies, attacks were made on Mr. Madison, and his
lovely wife. The lady met these assaults with a mild
serenity which went far to disarm turbulent injustice.
At the ball given to celebrate the inauguration of
Mr. Madison, Jefferson received him and Mrs. Madison,
who "looked and moved a queen."  She wore buffcolored velvet, with pearl ornaments, and a Paris
turban with bird-of-paradise plume. The manager
brought her the first number in the dance, which she
declined, as she never danced; and it was presented
to her sister. It was the wish of Mr. Madison that the
civilities of his house should be extended even to his
rancorous opponents, and he looked for the cessation
of hostilities when the popular excitement should
subside. The chiefs of the different parties con.
tinued to receive the frank and graceful attentions'of Mrs. Madison, in the circles where she presided.
Thus kindly feelings were cultivated, even with the




NEW SOCIAL PROSPECTS.           83
leaders of opposition, till a popularity was won which
the statesman's cold manners and lofty reserve might
have failed to gain.  The eight years' residence of
this illustrious pair in Washington, had made them
troops of friends who rejoiced when the day arrived
for Mr. Madison's inauguration. The oath was administered by Chief Justice Marshall, March 4, 1809.
Madison wore a plain suit of black.  Every face
beamed with smiles of gratulation, and every hand
was stretched out in cordial greeting.  Ex-President
Jefferson sat on the right hand of the new Chief
Magistrate. The removal of the Madisons to the
President's house gave general satisfaction in society;
for it was foreseen that the mansion would be the
center of a gay and brilliant circle. Dinner parties
were given every week; and a drawing-room was
opened,-where the beauty and fashion of the capital
found a scene appropriate for display. The strict ceremonials and formal etiquette of Mrs. Washington's
court were banished, as interfering with social enjoyment. No requisitions were made beyond those prevailing in private drawing-rooms, and the dignity of
high station never imposed dullness. To Mrs. Madison
all justly attributed these agreeable regulations.
The mother of James Madison, Eleanor Conway, in
her day added largely to the attractions of social life.
Mr. Madison was kind, gentle and conciliating. He was
annoyed, like all his successors, by applications for
office. An illiterate man from the far West applied for
the governorship of one of the Territories. TilThe President could not oblige him. He next, though he could
scarcely read, asked for a judgeship, and renewed his




84            MADISON'S ADMINISTRATION.
application for every vacancy, finally saying: "Since
your excellency cannot grant me an office, I shall
esteem  it a favor if you would just give me a-                a
pair of your old breeches." Mr. Madison immediately
gave him an order on a tailor for a suit of clothes.
William   C. Preston, in  his unpublished journal,
gave an account of his first visit to President Madison in Washington.  He was about eighteen years old.
When he went to call at the White House, he was
painfully shy and awkward.
" I and my conductor proceeded in the hack in utter silence. The
appearance of the house and grounds was, very grand. There was a
multitude of carriages at the door; many persons were going in and
coming out; especially many in gaudy regimentals.  Upon entering a
room where there were fifteen or twenty persons, Mr. Madison turned
toward us, and the General said, presenting me,' My young kinsman,
MIr. Preston, who has come to present his respects to you and Mrs.
Madison.' The President was a little man with a powdered head,
having an abstracted air and a pale countenance, with but little flow of
courtesy. Around the room was a blaze of military men and naval
officers in brilliant uniforms.  The furniture of the room, with the
brilliant mirrors, was very magnificent.  While we stood, Mrs. lMadison entered-a, tall, portly, elegant lady, with a turban. on her head
and a book in her hand. She advanced straight to me, and, extending
her left hand, said:'Are you William Campbell Preston, the son of
my old friend and most beloved kinswoman, Sally Campbell?'  I
assented.  She said:'Sit down, my son; for you are my son, and I
am the first person who ever saw you in this world.  Mr. Madison,
this is the son of Mrs. Preston who was born in Philadelphia.' The
President shook hands with me cordially.'General Wilkinson,' said
Mrs. Madison, addressing a gentleman who seemed to have been dipped
in Pactolus,' I must present this young gentleman to our distinguished
men-Captain Decatur, Mr. Cheves; and yet, after all, you would as
soon be presented to the young ladies,' turning to three who entered at
this moment,' Miss Maria Mayo, Miss Worthington and your kinswoman Miss Sally Coles. Now, young ladies, this young gentleman,




MR. PRESTON  AT THE WHITE HOUSE.                   85
if not my son, is my protege, and I commend him to your special consideration. With you, he shall be my guest at the White House as
long as he remains in the city. I am his mother's kinswoman, and
stand towards him in the relation of a parent.' All this was performed
with an easy grace and benignity which no woman in the world could
have exceeded. My awkwardness and terror suddenly subsided into a
romantic admiration for the magnificent woman before me.
"Thus suddenly and strangely domesticated in the President's house,
I found myself translated into a new and fairy sort of existence. Edward Coles was private secretary to the President, a relation, a thorough
gentleman, and one of the best-natured and most kindly-affectioned
men it has ever been my good fortune to know. He was an inmate of
the house, as were Miss Mayo, afterwards Mrs. General Scott, and Miss
Coles, afterwards Mrs. Andrew Stevenson.- These ladies were experienced belles, used to reigning over a multitude of willing subjects.
They soon turned me to account; made me useful as an attendant;
were entertained by my freshness-perhaps amused at my greenness.
I rode with them, danced with them, waited on them, and in a short
time they created or developed in me a talent for thread paper verses,
on which they levied contributions. When I met Mrs. Scott in New
York, she gracefully, and even touchingly, alluded to one of these halfextempores, which, with the tact that made her so admired, she had
remembered for thirty years."
Thus appointed cavalier to two belles, Mr. Preston
was swept into a current of fashionable dissipation.
The country at the time was in the agony of the war,
and Madison's position was painful and difficult.
"His labors were incessant; his countenance was pallid and hard;
his social intercourse was entirely committed to Mrs. Madison, and was
arranged with infinite tact and elegance.  He appeared in society daily,
with an unmoved and abstracted air, not relaxing, except towtards the
end of a protracted dinner, with confidential friends. Then he became
anecdotal, facetious, a little broad occasionally in his discourse, after
the manner of the old school. His most confidential companion was a
MIr. Cutts, a kinsman of his wife, whom General Jackson afterwards re.
moved from office. This gentleman habitually recounted to the President, over a glass of wine, the news, gossip and ox dits of the day. Mr.




86            MADISON S ADMINISTRATION.
Madison listened with interest to his details, frequently interposing
questions in a dry, keen way, and, as it seemed to me, directing his
inquiries more to personal matters than to things of real importance.
Ile showed more interest in hearing about General Marshall, as be
called the Chief Justice, than in regard to any one else, frequently asking,' What does General Marshall say about such and such matters?'
For the diplomatic corps (I forget who they were) he habitually, and
somewhat ostentatiously, expressed the most thorough contempt. Mrs.
Madison told me the necessities of society made sad inroads upon his
time, and that she was wearied of it to exhaustion.  As she always
entered the drawing-room with a volume in her hand, I said:' Still
you have time to read.''Oh no,' said she,'not a word; I have this
book in my hand-a very fine copy of Don Quixote-to have something not ungraceful to say, and, if need be, to supply a word of talk.'
She was always prompt in making her appearance in the drawing-room,
and when out of it was very assiduous with household offices. She told
me that Mr. Madison slept very little, going to bed late and getting up
frequently during the night to write or read; for which purpose a
candle was always kept burning in the chamber. When not in company, he habitually addressed Mrs. Madison by the familiar epithet of':Dolly,' under the influence of which the lady, and on no other occasion, relaxed the deliberate and somewhat stately demeanor which
always characterized her. I was a gay young man, favorably received
and considered in consequence of being in the White House and a pet
of Mrs. Madison's, she being universally beloved and admired. When I
klnew her in after life, widowed, poor and without the prestige of station,
I found her the same good-natured, kind-hearted, considerate, stately
person that she had been in the heyday of her fortunes. Many of her
minor habits, formed in early life, continued upon her in old age and
poverty. Her manner was urbane, gracious, with an almost imperceptible touch of Quakerism. She continued to the last to wear around
her shoulders a magnificent shawl of a green color. She always wore a
lofty turban, and took snuff from a snuff-box of lava or platina, never
from gold. Two years before her death, I was in a whist party with
her, when Mr. John Quincy Adams was her partner, and Lord Ashburton mine. Each of the three was over seventy years of age.
"My gay residence in Washington, which my father considered a
part of the education he had prescribed for me, gave me a very decided




MRS. MADISON'S COURTESY.                87
turn for gay society. However, I was soon thrown into a comparatively
solitary way of life, at least removed from the fascinations of fashion
and dissipation. Having flashed and floated along this bright current
for four or five weeks, I returned to my remote village of Abingdon,
Va., making the journey of four hundred miles on horseback; thus
having time, during the solitary ride through the mountains, to recover
from the gay and exciting scenes through which I had passed."
At dinner Mrs. Madison always took the head of
the table; Mr. Madison the middle, and one of his
secretaries the bottom. Her memory was so good
that she never forgot a name, and would address each
of her guests, though just introduced with twenty
others, as if she had known them for years. She
was a magnificent looking woman in the drawingroom. Her stately and Juno-like figure towered above
the rest of the ladies. When she found a timid young
girl, she would attend to her most assiduously, conduct
her to the piano, and remain with her till she became
more at her ease. At one of her receptions, a tall,
dangling youth, fresh from the backwoods, made his
appearance, and took his stand against a partition
wall. He stood in that position like a fixture for half
an hour, and finally ventured to take a cup of coffee,
which it was then the custom to hand around. Mrs.
Madison's keen eye had noticed his embarrassment,
and she wished to relieve it. She walked up and addressed him.  The poor youth, astounded, dropped
the saucer on the floor, and unconsciously thrust the
cup into his breeches pocket.   "The crowd is so
great "-remarked the gentle lady-4 that no one can
avoid being jostled. The servant will bring you another cup of coffee.! Pray, how did you leave your
excellent mother? I had once the honor of knowing




*.s88    -MADISO.!NS ADMINISTRATION.
-her, but I have not seen her for some years." Thus
she continued, till the poor youth felt as if he were
in the company of an old acquaintance.  He took
care, secretly and soon, to dislodge the protuberance
in his pocket.
Washington Irving, visiting Washington, was presented to Mrs. Madison by Mr. Herman Knickerbocker
as his c" cousin-german-Mr. Dietrich Knickerbocker."
Mr. Robert Walsh had introduced him  to Josiah
Quincy as "a young gentleman of New York."Quincy wrote that he "left Washington with the
feelings of a man quitting Tadmor in the wilderness,
where creeping things had possession."
Mr. Gaillard was a senator from South Carolina and
had been so from 1804. Urbane in his manners,
amiable, patient and firm, he made an excellent presiding officer in the Senate.  He was of a Huguenot
family. Crawford was a man of almost gigantic proportions, and, though not graceful, the effect of his
presence was imposing. Napoleon remarked it when
he was ambassador at the Imperial court, and complimented the Americans present on the grand air of
their representative. Mr. Lowndes was one of the
galaxy of brilliant young men sent by South Carolina,
with Calhoun and Cheves, to the House of Representatives at the beginning of the war of 1812.
When he rose to speak, the members, quitting their
distant seats, would gather close about him, with the
attention of affectionate confidence. Virtue, modesty,
benevolence, patriotism were his, with a sound judgment, and mild persuasive eloquence; his manners
were gentle, cordial and engaging. It was he who




PROMINENT MEN.:89.expressed the sentiment, that the Presidency was an
office neither to be sought nor declined. He died at
- the age of forty-two. William Pinkney, too, fell in
the plenitude of his strength, and on the field of his
fame, under the double labors of the Supreme Court
-and the Senate. In his day he was thought the first
of American orators; and he loved the admiration of
the crowded gallery. His forte lay in his logic and
-power of argument; he drew on imagination, and
laid great stress on action and delivery.
The Clay of 1812, —in the flush of early ambition,
-was gallant, chivalrous; the boast of Kentucky,
the idolized Speaker of the House.  The magic of
his lofty presence, the persuasive power of his magnetic voice, none could forget.  His impassioned ora,
tory was like the rush of a whirlwind. Yet the fervid
Kentuckian could not pretend to the compact style,
the clear method, or the massive logic of Calhoun.
Francis Key-author of the " Star Spangled Banner,"-lived in Georgetown in 1810. Dr. Beans of
Marlborough, a surgeon in the United States army,
was attending the sick soldiers when Commodore
Barney's flotilla was attacked. The British army, on
their march to Washington, bivouacked on the plantation of Dr. Beans, who though detesting them,
treated the officers with true Maryland hospitality.
A few days after their departure, while he was at dinner with some friends, a slave brought the news that
the British were marching back to their boats. Full
of glee, Dr. Beans' party went to a spring on the estate, with lemons, whiskey &c., to drink to the confusion of "perfidious Albion."  Three tired English




90         MADISON'S ADMINISTRATION.
soldiers, coming for water, were made prisoners by
the patriotic American gentlemen, and marched off
to the county gaol. The men were missed from the
ranks, and a detachment sent in search of them,
traced them to Marlborough, where the terrified inhabitants betrayed who were their captors. The men
were recovered; Dr. Beans was seized at midnight,
placed in his night-dress on the bare back of a mule,
and taken, closely guarded, to the troops; thence he
was sent to Admiral Cockburn's ship, and thrown into rigorous confinement.  The whole country was
aroused, and as soon as steps could be taken, Francis
Key, the intimate friend of Dr. Beans, was sent by
President Madison with a flag of truce to get him exchanged.  When Key reached the British fleet at
North Point, they were about to attack Baltimore;
and though he was courteously received and invited
to dine with Cockburn, he was informed that he must
remain on board till after the bombardment of the
city. He shared his friend's uncomfortable quarters
that memorable night; at sunset seeing the "Star
Spangled Banner" waving proudly from the ramparts
of Fort McHenry. When the day dawned after that
night of battle, lit at intervals by the lurid flash of
exploding bombs, and made fearful by the thunders
of cannon, the mist was too dense to discover if " the
Flag," or the red-cross of St. George waved from the
Fort, in the direction of which the two watched through
the port-hole, trembling with suspense.  Presently
there was a ripple in the water, a soft sough in the
fog; and like magic it rolled away, revealing the
American flag still floating defiantly from  its staff




.."Azoa
2'~~~~








NEWS OF PEACE.                 93
above the ramparts! The patriots fell on each other's
breast, weeping for joy.  Mr. Key then drew a letter from his pocket, and on its back pencilled the first
stanzas of the celebrated national song.  This only
authentic account of the incident was furnished by
the grand-niece of Dr. Beans, the distinguished poetess, Mrs. Dorsey of Washington.
The war, spreading desolation along our coasts,
brought ruin to the national capital.  When the
British forces were approaching Washington, the
President went with his friends to join General Winder and hold a council of war.  The heroism displayed by Mrs. Madison, who refused to leave the
city till she could see her husband safe, has been
often recorded.  In the private house where the
President lived after those disastrous events, his wife
still received their guests with hospitality, and made
them happy as before. The news following the glorious defence of New Orleans by General Jackson, of
the advent of peace, was borne to Washington by the
slow process of travel by horses and carriages from
New York.  Late in the afternoon of the 14th February, 1815, came thundering down Pennsylvania
avenue a coach and four foaming steeds, in which was
Mr. Henry Carroll, the bearer of the treaty of peace
between the American and British commissioners.
The carriage was followed by cheers and congratulations as it sped towards the office of the Secretary of
State-James Monroe-and thence to the President's
house. Soon after dusk, the members of Congress
and others presented themselves, the doors standing
open. The drawing-room was crowded, Mrs. Madison




94         MADISON'S ADMINISTRATION.
doing the honors, the observed of all observers, in
the meridian of her life and queenly beauty. She
represented the feelings of the statesman who was in
grave consultation with his official advisers.  EHer
face was radiant. with joy as she exchanged congratulations with her visitors upon the happy change in
the aspect of public affairs, dispensing hospitalities
with unrivalled grace. Her sisters, Mrs. Cutts and
Mrs. Washington, were much admired in society.
President Madison had the old school elegance of
manners, and abounded with information.  -I-e was
rather taciturn in public, without being didactic or
frigid. Among private friends his conversation was
delightful and humorous, and in small and confidential circles he blazed out into unrestrained facetiousness and occasional brilliant flashes of wit. A friend
once visited him at Montpelier, when he was confined to his bed by severe indisposition. When his
family and guests sat down to dinner, the invalid
desired the door of his room left open, "so that he
could hear what was going on."  Every few moments
he called out in a feeble but humorous voice, "Doctor, are you pushing about the bottles? Do your
duty, Doctor, or I must cashier you!"
President Madison died in 1836, at the advanced
age of eighty-six, his mind clear and active to the
last, and occupied with solicitous concern for the
safety of the Union, of which he had been one of
the great founders. Moderation, purity, temperance,
virtue in everything, were the characteristics of his
life and manners, and he was one of the purest of
public men.




V.
MONROE'S ADMINISTRATION.
Monroe a Representative of an Age prolific in Great Men,-The Eulogy
of Peyton and Adams-The Old Man at the Polls-Inauguration of
Monroe-His Cabinet-The Dress of the Period-" The Last of the
Cocked Hats "-Curious Reminiscence at the first Levee-Monroe's
Character-Madison's Anecdote of the Dutchmen-Henry Clay a rising Man-Calhoun in his Youth-Men of Note-Judge Marshall-'William H. Crawford-Thomas H. Benton and Others-The Quar-.
rel of the British and French Ministers at a Court Dinner —Lighting of the Executive Mansion-Extinction of the Federal PartyMrs. Monroe and her accomplished Daughters-Mr. Crawford's Rebuff by the President-Female Society in Washington.-Letter, ofLord Holland introducing two young Gentlemen of Rank-The
Presidential Campaign-Disinterestedness of Monroe-Letter of
La Fayette-His Offer of Aid declined-The Grandchildren of
Monroe —Mr. and Mrs. Gouverneur-Sketch of Mrs. Wingate.
COLONEL PEYTON  said: "Mr. Monroe is a noble
representative of an age prolific in great men; men
who had passed the ordeal and been chastened by
the fires of a revolution on principle. Men whose
ambition was nurtured on wholesome food, and who,
as De Tocqueville, the great political philosopher of
France, remarked, would have been intellectual giants
in any period of the world. Coming forth from a
revolution in which they had pledged to each other
and to the cause' their lives, their fortunes, and their
sacred honor,' they set to work earnestly and hon



96         MONROE'S ADMINISTRATION.
estly to put in motion and give efficiency and success
to what they had created at so much cost of blood
and treasure. It was in the midst of such men, surrounded by such circumstances, breathing such an
atmosphere of self-sacrificing virtue and heroic devotion, that Mr. Monroe learned his first lessons and
had stamped upon him the glorious impress of the
age."  From presiding over the commonwealth of
Virginia as governor, Monroe was called to a seat in
the United States Senate. Then as Minister Plenipotentiary to the courts of France, Spain and England, when our government was just settling upon its
foundations, and all its relations as one of the family
of nations had to be arranged, and when the disturbing causes of the French Revolution had disjointed
every thing in the old world, and the position of a
minister could only be filled by a man of experience,
ability, and courage.
John Quincy Adams wrote: " Mr. Monroe strengthened his country for defence by a system of combined fortifications, military and naval; sustaining
her rights, her dignity and.honor abroad; soothing
her dissensions and conciliating her acerbities at
home; controlling by a firm though peaceful policy
the hostile spirit of European alliance against republican South America; extorting, by the mild compulsion of reason, the shores of the Pacific from the
stipulated acknowledgment of Spain; and leading
back the imperial autocrat of the North to his lawful
boundaries, from his hastily asserted dominion over
the Southern Ocean. Thus strengthening and consolidating the federative evidence of his country's union,




MONROE S PATRIOTISM.           97
till he was entitled to say, like Augustus Caesar of his
imperial city, that he had found her built of brick,
and left her constructed of marble."
"I will vote for James Monroe!" exclaimed an
aged man, brought to the polls at the warmly contested election; "his grandfather befriended me when
I first came into the country." The same noble spirit
of benevolence which prompted the grandfather to
receive a helpless stranger in his home, might be
traced in the descendant, who pledged his property
for the credit of the nation. Mr. Monroe had been
made Secretary of State by President Madison, in
1811. It was an important and awful crisis. Monroe
came on board the ship of state just before she
plunged into the midst of her perils. The resignation of the Secretary of War threw upon him the
additional duties of that department. When, from
the low state. of the national credit and the exhausted condition of the treasury, it was impossible
to raise funds for the defence of New Orleans, Monroe, with a patriotic devotedness worthy of the brightest epoch of Grecian fame, pledged his own individual
credit as subsidiary to that of the nation. He was
inaugurated as President of the United States, on
the 5th of March, 1817.  He and the Vice-President were escorted by a large cavalcade to Congress
Hall, where the Ex-President, the Judges of the Supreme Court, and the Senators were assembled.
They attended him  to the portico, where he delivered his address. After the oath of office was
administered by Chief Justice Marshall, military salutes were fired. The day was a beautiful one, and




98.          0RMOR:O   S ADMINISTRATION.
the vast assemblage testified their respect and kindly
feeling.
The President appointed John Quincy Adams Secretary of State, and William H. Crawford for the Department of the Treasury. Mr. Calhoun was afterwards
made Secretary of War, and B. W. Crowninshield of
the Navy. In his tour through the country MonroeE
was greeted with general enthusiasm. The barge fitted up for his reception at Philadelphia, was lined and
trimmed with crimson velvet, and rowed by sixteen
oarsmen dressed in scarlet vests, with white sleeves
and trowsers. The President wore a dark blue coat,
with buff vest, doeskin buff-colored breeches, and top
boots. He had on a military cocked hat: of the fashion of the Revolution, with a black bowed ribbon
worn as a cockade. He was the last of the Presidents
who adhered to this old-fashioned style of dress, as
small-clothes and their accompaniments were soon
afterwards discarded.  In some of the journals he
was. called. "lthe last of the cocked hats."  At the
first levee given by President Monroe, when he was
surrounded by a crowd, he heard a voice outside the
throng shout.; "Ah, Jemmy Monroe! Jemmy Monroe! you feel finer: than you did the day I picked you
up from the battle-field.of Trenton, with a Hessian
bullet in your shoulder!" The speaker was unable to
make his way to the President; but the latter soon
discovered him to be old Mr. Coryell, to whose house
he had been carried wounded from the field, and
where he remained till he was able to take his place
as aid to Lord Stirling.
It was owing to his conciliatory and tranquillizing




MONROE'S CHARACTER.            99
influence-the effect of deep and calm mental power
-that the party spirit which had been so fierce and
disturbing, was laid to rest. "The era of good feeling" was inaugurated, by his wise management and
his personal manners.  On the 7th July 1817, he
dined with Mr. Adams, and after dinner, accompanied
by the other guests, made an afternoon visit to Mr.
Quincy. Mr. Monroe's exterior was grave and mild.
He was tall and well formed, and had a manner
marked with dignity and ease, without any of the
acquired graces of a man of society. He was prudent, plodding, generous and patriotic, and though one
of the least splendid, the most fortunate of statesmen.
Few persons ever knew him intimately who did not
love him. There was a downrightness, a manliness,
a crystal-like integrity in his conduct, which constantly
grew upon associates.  Jefferson's frequent remark
that he was so perfectly honest, that "if his soul
were turned inside out, not a spot would be found on
it," has become historic.  Mr. Madison said that his
countryman had not generally appreciated his solid
but not showy understanding. His extreme generosity, not only to the numerous members of his family dependent on him, but to friends, contributed to
his impoverishment. He and Madison often addressed
the people each in his own favor.  On one occasion
they met at a church. There was a nest of Dutchmen
in that quarter, whose vote might probably turn the
scale.  Service was performed, and then they had
music with two fiddles. When it was all over, they
made speeches to the people, keeping them standing
in the snow. They stood it out very patiently; seem7




100        MONROE'S ADMINISTRATION.
ing to consider it a sort of fight, of which they were
required to be spectators.  Madison had to ride in
the night twelve miles to quarters, and got his nose
frost-bitten.
Mr. Goodrich was in Washington in the winter of
1819-20. Mr. Tompkins was Vice-President; Judge
Marshall was at the head of the Supreme Court; Clay
was Speaker of the House.  The two most noted
members besides him, were William Lowndes of South
Carolina and John Randolph of Virginia. The clouds
were then mustering for the tempest that followed
the application of Missouri for admission; "poor unheard Missouri" as Clay called her-she being then
without a representative.  His tall, towering form,
his long, sweeping gestures, his musical yet thrilling
tones, made a deep impression.
"Mr. Calhoun," Quincy said, "is quite a young man
compared with Mr. Adams, and has much personal
beauty; he is tall and finely made, neither spare nor
robust; his movements are light and graceful; his
complexion is dark; his features are handsome and
animated, with brilliant black eyes. In his countenance all the manly virtues are displayed,. with shining benevolence. In his manners he is frank and
courteous. In Washington as well as elsewhere, Mr.
Calhoun is held as a model of perfection. M'Lean is
apparently older than Calhoun; in person he is tall and
spare; his complexion is fair, his countenance mild and
pleasing, his fine blue eyes beaming with good nature,
revealing the benevolence of his heart. His manners
are those of an accomplished gentleman.  General
Brown, General in Chief of the United States army,




EMINENT STATESMEN.            101
Judge Thurston, General Van Ness, Messrs. Brent and
Carroll, all gentlemen of wealth and distinction, reside in Washington." The appearance of Lowndes
was remarkable. He was six feet two inches high,
slender, bent, emaciated, and of feeble frame.  His
complexion was sallow and dead, and his face almost
expressionless. His voice was low and whispering.
Yet he was the strong man of the House; strong in
his various knowledge, his comprehensive understanding, his pure heart, his upright intentions. Rufus
King at that time held the highest rank in the Senate
for able statesmanship, combined with acknowledged
probity and great dignity of person, manner and character; Harrison Gray Otis, too, stood very high, and
William hBunter, of Rhode Island, noted for his agreeable presence and his great conversational powers;
with William Pinkney, of Maryland, the most distinguished lawyer of that era; a large, handsome
man, dressed somewhat foppishly-often in a white
waistcoat and white top-boots; and Mr. Macon, of
North Carolina, a solid, farmer-like man, greatly
esteemed for combining a sound patriotism with a
consistent political career.  The general aspect of
the Senate was that of dignity, sobriety and refinement. There were more who had the marks of wellbred gentlemen than at the present day.
Judge Marshall was still in the full vigor of his
career. He was tall and thin, with a small face, expressive of acuteness and amiability.  His personal
manner was eminently dignified; yet his looks did
not give the idea of his great abilities and lofty moral
qualities. William H. Crawford was one of the few




102        MONROE'S ADMINISTRATION.
men who, having a great fame, became greater as he
was more closely examined. In stature he was a
head and shoulders above the common race, and justly
proportioned, with manly features and open countenance, frank and cordial manners and fluent and impressive conversation. When he was a member of
Monroe's cabinet, the array of eminent men was thick;
historic names of the expiring generation were still
on the public theatre, and the distinguished of the
new generation were entering on it. He had served
in the Senate during Madison's administration, conspicuous in that body, then pre-eminent for its able
men.  He spoke forcibly and to the point, with a
ready and powerful elocution, and was "the Ajax of
the administration." Senatorial debate was then of
a high order-a rivalship of courtesy as well as of
talent: and Crawford was invaluable in the Senate;
but a man of head and nerve was wanted to represent the United States at the French Court, and
Madison selected Mr. Crawford, who was in Paris
when the great Emperor fell, reappeared, and fell
again. From this high, critical post he was called
by Monroe to be Secretary of the Treasury. He was
the dauntless foe of nullification.
Chief Justice Marshall still presided over the supreme Court, associated with Justice Story, Justice
Johnson, of South Carolina, Justice Duval and Jus.
tice Washington, of Virginia. The friends of popular
representative institutions might contemplate their
administration with pride and pleasure, and challenge
comparison with any government in the world.
The agitating question of the session of 1820-21,




EMINENT STATESMEN.           103
was the admission of the State of Missouri. The
question of restricting slavery had been compromised
the session before; the "compromise" being the
work of the South, sustained by the united voice of
Monroe's cabinet and the Southern Senators. Mr.
Clay was the author of the final settlement of the
Missouri controversy by the actual admission of the
State. The session was also remarkable as being the
first at which any proposition was made in Congress
for the occupation and settlement of our territory on
the Columbia River-the only part then owned by
the United States on the Pacific Coast.
Thomas Hart Benton, who was thirty years a Senator, was born in North Carolina, March, 1782; the
son of Colonel Jesse Benton and Ann Gooch, of a colonial family in Virginia. He was cousin to the wife
of Henry Clay, who was Lucretia Hart. His mother
was a woman of fine intellect, matured by reading
and observation, and of great moral worth, elevation
of character and ardent piety.  The hospitality of
the times brought her into acquaintance with the
prominent men of the Revolution.  Colonel Benton
was one of the first Senators sent from the State of
Missouri. All the departments of the Government
then appeared to great advantage in the personal
character of their administrators. Mr. Monroe was
President, Governor Tompkins Vice-President; John
Quincy Adams, Secretary of State; William 11.
Crawford, Secretary of the Treasury; John C. Calhoun, Secretary of War; Smith Thompson, Secretary of the Navy; John McLean, Postmaster General; William' Wirt, Attorney General. The Senate




104        MONROE S ADMINISTRATION.
presented a long list of eminent men known by their
services in the federal or State governments, and
the national representation was of great weight and
efficiency.
At a court dinner given to the diplomats by the
President, Sir Charles Vaughan, the British minister,
found himself seated opposite the Count de Serrurier,
the ambassador from  France. The differences between these two countries had not a little influenced
the feelings of their representatives.  Several times
Vaughan noticed that the French minister bit his
thumb when he made a remark; and at last his irritation found vent in the question —"Do you bite
your thumb at me, Sir?"-"-I do," was the Count's
unhesitating reply. Vaughan instantly left the table
and went out into the hall, promptly followed by his
antagonist. Both drew their swords, and the swords
were crossed.  Mr. Monroe, who had come after
them, drew his also; but it was to throw theirs up.
He then called his servants, ordered the gentlemen
into separate apartments, and sent for their carriages
to convey them home. When this was done, he returned to his remaining guests, and finished dinner.
Early the next morning the two ministers sent apologies for their unbecoming behavior, and their difference was amicably settled.'"The east room" was the play-room of Mr. Monroe's daughters, and was then in an unfinished state.
The streets of the capital were often in so bad a
condition, that it was common to see several fourliorse wagons stalled in front of the house. At
every reception given by the President, the lighting




EXTINCTION OF THE FEDERAL PARTY.   105
of the mansion by wax lights cost one hundred dollars. This expense is now saved by the gas, which,
as well as the coal, is furnished by the government.
All Mr. Monroe's silver plate was his own property,
and bore his initials. It was purchased of him by
the government, and used in the White House till
Van Buren's time.
Mrs. Adams wrote to Judge Vanderkemp in January, 1818: "When President Monroe was in Boston upon his late tour, encompassed by citizens, surrounded by the military, harassed by invitations to
parties and applications innumerable for office, some
gentleman asked him if he was not completely worn
out. To which he replied,'Oh no; a little flattery
will support a man through great fatigue."'
Monroe's re-election was with scarcely the show of
opposition. The Federal party had ceased to exist.
The leading aspirants to the Presidency were members of the cabinet, and were reluctant to oppose
their chief   All the previous Presidents except
Adams had served two terms, and the general opinion
was that not to elect one to a second term would be
equivalent to a condemnation of his conduct in the
first. The defeat of John Adams, in 1800, had been
spoken of as "an interruption of his administration,'
and was regarded as a disgrace as well as a defeat.
The political calm that had followed the election of
Jefferson lasted some twenty years, during which
time the Federal party was annihilated. Then the
Jeffersonian influence seemed to have spent its force.
The older politicians, invested with revolutionary associations, were passing from the stage, and the second




106       MONROE'S ADMINISTRATION.
generation of public men had acquired experience
and celebrity.
Mrs. Monroe was an elegant and accomplished
woman; a model of all that is charmling in the ferninine character, with a dignity of manner peculiarly
befitting her elevated station.  She was Miss Elizabeth Kortright, a native of the city of New York.
She and her two sisters were beautiful girls, belles of
New York during the Revolutionary war, and courted
by both American and British officers. One of the
sisters was married to Nicholas Gouverneur; another
to Mr. Hylager, a wealthy West Indian. Elizabeth
was ridiculed and reproached by her young friends
for having passed by so many brilliant and dashing
adorers, to choose a plain and quiet member of Congress. When she accompanied Mr. Monroe to Paris,
she was called "c la belle Americaine," and entertained
the best society at her residence, with grace and ease.
Her eldest daughter Eliza was educated in Paris at
Madame Campan's establishment, and became the
second wife of Judge George Hay, of Virginia, a distinguished member of the bar in Richmond. Their
daughter Hortensia was a very beautiful girl. A
daughter of Judge Hay by a former marriage — Mrs.
Samuel Ringgold-was one of the family circle at
the White House. Hortensia married Lord Rogers
of Baltimore.
Maria Monroe was one day in her father's office,
during his Presidency, when William H. Crawford
came in, urging something on Mr. Monroe which he
wanted time to consider.  Crawford insisted with
vehemence on its being done at once; saying, at




WASHINGTON LADIES.            107
length, "I will not leave this room till my request is
granted."  "You will not!" exclaimed the President,
starting up and seizing the poker. "You will now
leave the room, or you will be thrust out." Crawford
was not long in making his exit. Maria was married
at the White House to Samuel L. Gouverneur, the
nephew of Mrs. Monroe; Nicholas, his father, having
married Miss Kortright. These ladies dispensed the
hospitalities of the Presidential mansion, and exercised a favorable influence on Washington society.
The court circle in Monroe's administration still had
the aristocratic spirit and elevated tone which had
characterized the previous administrations. Its superiority was universally acknowledged, and nothing
vulgar entered its precincts.  Elegance of dress was
absolutely required. On one occasion Mr. Monroe
refused admission to a neai relative who happened
not to have a suit of small-clothes and silk hose in
which to present himself at a public reception.  He
was driven to the necessity of borrowing for once.
Mrs. Monroe died at Oak Hill, Virginia, the residence of her husband, and her grave was shaded by
a large pine tree in the garden. Her daughter Maria
was laid beside her in 1850; Mrs. Hay died in Paris,
and was buried in Pere la Chaise.
The female society at Washington during the administration of Monroe was essentially Southern. Virginia, proud of her Presidents, sent forth her brightest flowers to adorn the court circle. The wealth of
the sugar and cotton planters, and of the vast wheatfields of the agricultural States, cultivated by negroes, enabled Southern Senators and Representatives




108        MONROE'S ADMINISTRATION.
to keep their carriages and liveried servants, and
to maintain great state. Dinners and suppers with
rich wines and the delicacies of the season, had their
persuasive influence over the minds as well as the appetites of the entertained. A few of the richer members from the North vied with Southern members in
their style of living and entertainments; but so inconsiderable was their number, that they furnished
only exceptions to the rule.  John D. Dickinson, a
member of Congress from the Rensselaer District,
(N. Y.,) a man of wealth, was one of these. His
daughter became the wife of Ogle Tayloe of Washington.
After his second election as President, Monroe
made a journey through the Northern and Eastern
States and saw many of his old companions in arms
as objects of charity.  One broken old man who had
once been a gallant officer, as well as a scholar and
a merchant, came to pay his respects, and conversed
with the President with the freedom of an old friend.
Mr. Monroe noticed his scanty wardrobe, though he
uttered no complaint. At Hanover, in New Hampshire, he visited Mrs. Wheelock, and reminded her of
the time when, a sprightly maiden, she had prepared
the surgeon's bandages for the wounded Lieutenant
Monroe, on the morning of the battle of Trenton.
The grave statesman and the elderly lady were reminded of the changes time had made, as they talked
of the incidents of that memorable day.
Mr. Monroe's military education, and the intrepidity and decision he had learned as a soldier were of
great use to him in public life. The half century in




VISITORS OF RANK.                     109
which he was an actor on the great stage of human
affairs, was eventful in the history of nations.   His
imperturbable serenity was an excellent thing for a
diplomatist, and often of service to an executive officer.  He was never dazzled nor deluded by imagination. Ages may pass before one more fortunate will
be found in the Presidential chair of the American
republic.
Lord Holland wrote to Mr. Monroe in January 1824,
introducing four young English gentlemen, Mr. Wortley, Mr. Stanley, Mr. Labouchere, and Mr. Dennison,
who were taking a tour of pleasure and curiosity to
the United States. His lordship continues:' Such a deviation from the common line of travels hitherto in
fashion with young men of their rank has excited no little sensation
in London, but receives the warm approbation of all thinking and
sensible men.  Should it become a precedent for others, the two freest
(I am afraid I might say the only two free) countries upon earth will
derive mutual advantages from those destined to acquire influence, in
each cultivating acquaintance and friendship with one another in early
life. The balance, indeed, is likely to be greatly in our favor; for in
the present state of all our neighboring courts, hitherto the common
markets for fashionable opinion, all love of liberty and all popular
feeling which we can retain for our own consumption must be of our
own growth, or imported from your side of the Atlantic. There is no
such commodity on the Continent of Europe."
Of those young men, Mr. Wortley belonged to a
branch of the Stuarts, and was a lineal descendant
of Lady Mary; Mr. Stanley was heir to one of the
oldest names and largest estates in the British empire-Lord Derby's, and had commenced his career
in the House of Commons with the prospect of brilliant success.   Labouchere was the nephew  of Mr.




110            ~MONROE S ADMINISTRATION.
Baring.  Lord Holland understood  the advantage to
them   of an  acquaintance  with  the free institutions
of the United States, and an introduction to the President. He adds:
" I know not whether they will find you still at Washington, discharging your useful and honorable functions as President, or retired
from your labors; and I hardly know which to wish for their sakes.
In either case I envy them the satisfaction of conversing with you..
I can assure you with the utmost sincerity, that among the pleasantest
reflections on the events of my public life, is the circumstance of having
been brought in contact with one who was destined by his fortune and
his virtues to fill the Presidency of the greatest republic now in the
world in a way honorable and advantageous to his country, beneficial
to the common interests of freedom., and not unworthy of the great man
who was first elevated to that most glorious of situations. Accept, my
dear Sir, my congratulations on the just commendations which are
everywhere bestowed on your late administration, and my thanks, as a
friend of freedom and a citizen of the world, for the example which
you have given, and the manly and benevolent policy you have
pursued." *
As the  Presidential election of 1824  approached,
great popularity accrued to De Witt Clinton by the
completion of the Erie Canal in New York State;
exciting a great appetite among public men for that
kind of fame.  The steam-car had not then  been invented; but "internal improvement," was the cry
everywhere. In the summer of 1824, General La Fayette came under an invitation from  the President to
revisit the United States, and his progress through
the States was a triumphal procession. He found
three  of his old  associates  ex-Presidents-Adams,
Jefferson and Madison; another, Monroe, in the Presidential chair. He was sent home the following year
* MS. letter.




EMINENT STATESMEN.           111
as the country's guest, by its new President Mr.
Adams.
An eminent statesman of Virginia, who was a Senator in Congress in the first term of Washington's
administration and in the last term of Monroe's, was
John Taylor "of Caroline."  He died at the close of
1824. He gave his time to his farm and his books
when not called by an emergency to the public service. His character was announced in his looks and
deportment, and in his uniform senatorial dress; the
coat, waistcoat and pantaloons of the same "London
brown" and in the cut of a former fashion; beaver
hat with ample brim, fine white linen, gold-headed
cane, used for support when bending under the heaviness of years. "He seemed to have been cast in the
same mould with Mr. Macon, and it was pleasant to
see them together, looking like two Grecian sages."
He belonged to that constellation of great men which
shone so brightly in Virginia in his day, and whose
light spread through the boundaries of the civilized
world.
The Presidential campaign of 1824 was not the less
exciting for the long lull in the political firmament.
The question of the succession had been the great
topic of conversation during the last three years of
Mr. Monroe's term. The Secretary of the Treasury,
William Harris Crawford, was the heir apparent of
the Virginia dynasty, and the "regular" candidate
of the Republican party. Next to him the most
prominent one was John Quincy Adams, Secretary
of State. A third was John C. Calhoun, Secretary of
War, then but forty-one years of age, and a different




112        MONROE'S ADMINISTRATION.
man from him who in his later years, as Miss Mar.
tineau said, lived among his peers in "intellectual
isolation," "a spectral statesman, gaunt and grim,
coming out of the past to repeat the maxims of
other ages."  Wirt wrote of him in 1824: "-Calhoun
is a most captivating man. His is the very character
to strike a Virginian: ardent, generous, high-minded,
brave, with a genius full of fire, energy and light; a
devoted patriot, proud of his country, and prizing her
glory above his life."
Colton, the biographer of Henry Clay, mentioned a
party given by John Quincy Adams on the 8th Jan,
uary, 1824, in honor of General Jackson. The President, foreign ambassadors, members of Congress and
many distinguished persons, were present; but General Jackson was the star of the evening, with Mrs.
Adams on his arm, presenting him to the guests.
Mr. Crawford was struck with paralysis in August,
1823, and was removed to a cottage near Washington,
where he was visited only by his confidential clerk
and his nearest friends. The canvass for the Presidency raged on; hotels and drawing-rooms being
thronged by the votaries of fashion and the satellites
of the different champions.
On the morning of March 16th, 1824, Jackson
was notified by the President to attend him, and be
presented with the medal voted him by Congress in
1815. This was presented in the presence of the
heads of departments and their ladies, the ladies of
the executive mansion, etc. Monroe visited Nashville during his Presidency, and General Jackson was
among those who welcomed and escorted him. They




LA FAYETTE'S LETTER.                113
entered the- room  at a grand ball, arm  in arm, the
General in his newest uniform; while on Monroe's
other side walked General Carroll, also a man of lofty
stature.
The administration of Monroe closed March 3d,
1825; and after laying down the burden of State cares,
he retired to his home in London County, Virginia.
For a few years only had he the society of his beloved wife in this pleasant retreat. She was taken
from him, and the widower went on a visit to New
York. Here his failing health was watched by filial
solicitude and tenderness.  After the close of Monroe's second term, he commenced to reap the bitter
fruits of a life devoted to the best interests of his
country, regardless of his own. As a private citizen,
he emerged from all his successive public trusts with
poverty as the emblem of his purity and the badge
of all his public honors. In the death of his devoted
wife in September, 1830, he realized that his cup of
earthly sorrow was full to the brim. She had adorned
every public position he ever held, with enviable
graces of person and mind.  She had nobly participated in all his troubles, and with her sudden loss
all the hopes of his declining years faded rapidly.
La Fayette wrote to Mr. Monroe in 1828, when he
was depressed by the failing health of his wife:
"The papers have confirmed my fears of your pecuniary situation
being still worse than I had for a long time apprehended.  Under
those circumstances, there is great need of her and your fortitude. My
feelings on every account it were superfluous to express. The settlement of your claims has been left open. May the actual session finish
what the last one has begun!
"In the meantime, my dear Monroe, permit your earliest, your best,




114            MONROE'S ADMINISTRATION.
and your most obliged friend to be plain with you. It is probable that,
to give you time and facilities for your arrangement and mortgage,
might be of some use. The sale of one-half of my Florida property is
full enough to meet my family settlements and the wishes of my neighbors. There may be occasion for a small retrocession of acres, in case
of some claims on the disposed of Louisiana lands-an object as yet
uncertain, at all events inconsiderable; so that there will remain ample
security for a large loan; for I understand those lands are very valuable, and will be so to a great extent after the disposal of a part of
them. You remember that in a similar embarrassment I have formerly accepted your intervention. It gives me a right to reciprocity.
Our friend Mr. Graham has my full powers. Be pleased to peruse
the inclosed letter, seal it, and put it in the post-office. I durst not
send it before I had obtained your approbation.  Yet, should it be
denied, I would feel much mortified. I hope, I know you are too much
my friend not to accept what, in a similar case, I would not an instant
hesitate to ask." *
The enclosed letter was a power-of-attorney to Mr.
Graham, to mortgage the lands mentioned. Mr. Monroe declined accepting the offer, and returned the
power-of-attorney to General La Fayette.
Mr. Monroe left three grand-children, of whom  the
youngest was Mr. Samuel L. Gouverneur. The duties
of administrator of President Monroe devolved on
him. He published, in 1867, a work composed by
Mr. Monroe in his later years, entitled  "The People
the Sovereigns," a comparison of the government of
the United States with those of other republics. This
work has excited much attention both in this country
and abroad, and Mr. Bancroft considers it worthy of
the closest study of statesmen and diplomatists. Mr.
Gouverneur, at the outbreak of the Mexican war, was
commissioned in the 4th Regiment of Artillery, and ac*MS. letter.




SKETCH OF EMRS. WINGATE.        115
companied General Scott from Vera Cruz to the city
of Mexico. He served with distinction, and was brevetted for gallant conduct at the battles of Contreras
and Cherubusco. At the close of the war he resigned,
and subsequently was United States Consul at the
port of Foo Choo, in China. He remained there till
the commencement of the civil war,'when he returned to this country, and now resides in Frederick
City, Md. His wife, who was Miss Marion Campbell,
is the daughter of Judge Campbell, formerly Surrogate of New York.  She is the sister of Mrs. Eames
of Washington, and is a most lovely and accomplished
woman.
Mrs. Julia C. Wingate was a celebrity in the court
society during Monroe's administration.  She was a'daughter of General Henry Dearborn, whose long life
of seventy-eight years, filled with patriotic services
to his country, terminated in 1829. He was a distinguished Revolutionary officer, and served with honor
at Bunker Hill, Ticonderoga, Monmouth, Yorktown
and elsewhere. In 1801 he'was appointed Secretary of
War and served through both terms of President Jefferson's administration. In 1812 he received the appointment of Senior Major-General of the American
army. In 1822 he was sent as minister to Portugal,
During his residence at the capital, he and other foreign ministers were instrumental in saving the King
and his court, from a conspiracy of the Queen and her
son Don Miguel. As an expression of his gratitude
the King conferred orders of distinction upon all the
foreign ministers, except General Dearborn, whom the
law of his country forbade to accept any; to him he pre



116        MONROE'S ADMINISTRATION.
sented his miniature set with large solitaire diamonds.
It is now in the possession of his grand-daughter Mrs.
Charles Quincy Clapp. The wife of General Dearborn
was remarkably gifted and cultivated in mind and
person, and eminently fitted to grace her position.
Under the influence of such parents, their daughter
grew to womanhood. At eighteen she was married to
General Wingate, whose name is honorably identified
with the early history of Maine. She accompanied
him to Washington, where they resided in General
Dearborn's family. The resources of Mrs. Wingate's
brilliant mind were here called forth, with the exercise
of her extraordinary conversational powers. These,
with her attractive person, dignified though captivating manners, and genial disposition, rendered her society eagerly sought after. She was the ornament
and the pride of- every circle in which she- appeared.
In Washington, at that time, society was represented by the best specimens of beauty, intelligence
and refinement in the country. Mrs. Wingate's cordial but- unostentatious hospitalities rendered her
home attractive to the most gifted.  She was an
intimate friend of Mrs. Madison, and enjoyed the
esteem  of all the distinguished personalges at the
seat of government. She was in Washington at the
time of General La Fayette's visit to this country.
On the occasion of his visit to Portland, General and
Mrs. Wingate gave him a brilliant morning reception'
Willis, in his History of the distinguished lawyers
of Maine, has placed upon record an incident illustra;
tive of Mrs. Wingate's character.  "In 1806, when
party spirit was raging like a pestilence, and the




A HAPPY THOUGHT.             117
whole community was divided into Federals - and'
Democrats, Mrs. Wingate, who was one of the most
beautiful women that Maine ever produced, was desirous of giving a genial welcome to her numerous
acquaintance in her new house. Cards'were issued,
the drawing-rooms were filled, and ladies and gentlemen of both parties there met face to face.  But
the elegant and fascinating hostess was almost overwhelmed with anxiety and despair to observe that'there was no conversation; there were no smiles nor
kind looks at each other. What could she do? how
could she make her friends happy? A bright thought
suddenly sprang from her warm heart.'Wingate,'
as she always called her husband,'send for Terpsichore; let us have music and dancing.' It was done.'The'instruments struck up; hands and feet were
soon in lively and graceful motion. Though few and
short were the sentences exchanged, Federalists andDemocrats long remember that happy evening."  In
the last years of her life she enjoyed, as ever, the
society of her friends, and her recollections: of the
memorable time spent in Washington were clear and
full of interest.  She remembered particularly the
visit of' some French gentlemen at her father's, in
Maine, where they remained for several days, and
mingled freely'with'the citizens: of the town. After
their departure, no little surprise was created by the
announcement of her father that the strangers were
Talleyrand and Louis Philippe, then traveling incog.
Mrs. Wingate was deeply religious, and was noted
for her charities and her sympathy with the unfortunate. A descendant of this distinguished family




118          MONROE'S ADMINISTRATION.
is Mrs. Winthrop G. Ray, mentioned here before her
time, as she was one of the most admired visitors to
Washington in the reign of President Pierce. She
is the niece of Mrs. Levi Woodbury.  Colonel Charles
Quincy Clapp, the father of Georgiana Wingate Ray,
was the great-nephew of Mrs. John Hancock, and married Octavia Wingate, the only daughter of Mrs. Julia
C. Wingate. Her uncommon personal beauty rendered her irresistible. Her presence was an inspiration to the students at Bowdoin College, when she
attended their annual exhibitions. At a private ball
in Boston, where Harvard University was represented,
complimentary couplets, printed on cards in Greek
and Latin, with her name, attested the general admiration. Their eldest daughter, Julia, a celebrated
beauty, and highly gifted, married John Bryce Carroll, a gentleman of rare  endowments, and highly
connected in Virginia.  Miss Georgie, {he youngest
daughter, was noted for sprightliness and wit, with a
piquant, original, charming grace.   At one of the
reunions at Colonel Clapp's hospitable mansion in
Portland, where the broad hall was a splendid picture-gallery, the author, Henry William  Herbert, im:
provised a poem celebrating the loveliness and gifts
of the ladies of the family"A wreath of beauties such as ne'er
Of king or kaiser graced the courtly sphere." *
* The poem closes thus:
For who can mark the fleet expression rise,
So fraught with soul in Minna's glorious eyes?
Who look upon the clear and sparkling grace,
That crowns the young Francesca's fairy face?
Who catch the gems that fall, so careless cast
From Anna's lips so fluent and so fast,




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MRS. WINTHROP G. RAY.                             121
Georgiana was married to Mr. Winthrop G. Ray, of
New York, a grandson of Samuel Gray, one of the
most eminent apd prosperous merchants and shipowners of Boston. Mr. and Mrs. Ray passed the first
winter after marriage in New Orleans, where the
bride received much attention from Henry Clay, an
old friend of the family, and other distinguished persons. She afterwards spent much time in Washington, where her cousin Mrs. Montgomery Blair, and
other relatives resided, and where she was the acknowledged ornament of the best circles. Her home
is in the city of New York. There she has been for
several years a leader in society, the brilliant gatherings in her drawing-rooms being often described in
newspapers. The companionship of a young and
lovely daughter, whose charms and graces have early
won celebrity, of late has added to the attractions of
Mrs. Ray's house. She is herself in the prime of
So free and fearless?-she for whom one breast
In the far forest of the boundless West
Beats worthily?-who see, so young and fair,
Sarah beside her-sweet and kindred pair,
Fit sisterhood? Who marvel at the state
Of queenly Julia, merrily sedate,
Serenely courteous, and superbly bright?
Who look upon the quick and flashing light
That leaps from Georgiana's every featureMost artless, innocent, bewitching creature?
Who gaze on Sarah's soul entrancing face,
All woman mirthfulness and woman grace;
Her self-curled locks, and eyes whose azure hue
Mocks the most lovely heaven's most lovely blue?
Who can behold, and dream that seven like these,
Bloom on the softer shores of Southern seas?
Tis done! tis done! the high emprise is gained,
The minstrel's task is o'er, his end attainedFrancesca, Minna, Sarah, Julia, Ann,
Georgiana, Sarah,-match them if you can!
Minna was Mrs. Montgomery Blair; Francesca, Mrs. Fry; Anna, Mrs.
Bigelow; Sarah, Miss Chaddock; Julia, Mrs. Carroll; Sarah, Mrs. Herlke t;
Georgiana, Mrs. Ray.




122        MONROE'S ADMINISTRATION.
lovely womanhood, and her bright beauty is rendered
more bewitching -by her sprightliness and quick,
though always good-natured wit. Something sparkling and original always appears in her conversation;
perfectly unstudied and impulsive, illuminating every
subject or placing it in an amusing light, and carrying the sympathies with her by the entertainment
affobrded. She is the life of every circle; and so noble
is her heart, so full of kindly charity, that her vivacity never wounds. Many of her off-hand jeu d'esprits
are repeated as capital sayings; but they have no
sting beyond the gentlest rebuke for self-conceit, presumption or pride of wealth. Her unostentatious
charities are known to recipients far and wide, and
often have her indignant sarcasms been leveled at
the worldly spirit that neglects merit where the gifts
of fortune are denied. For what is termed'"snobbishness"- the meanness that courts riches and distinction, while doing injustice to talent obscured by
poverty-her high-hearted scorn is always shown.
In her generous, chivalric nature, as well as in her
personal and mental charms, there are few women
like Mrs. Ray.




VI.
JOHN QUINCY ADAMS' ADMINISTRATION.
Jefferson's Opinion of Adams —His previous Career-Dress in the
Senate-As Secretary of State-Mrs. Adams-Her Influence on Society-Personal Appearance of Adams- Anecdotes-Levee after
the Counting of the Electoral Votes-Meeting between the President and Jackson —The Inauguration-Re-opening of the old Controversy of Parties-Duel between Clay and Randolph-The Gossip discreet for once-Effects of early Rising-New Year's Receptions-LThe Congressional Library a Lounging-place-Etiquette at
Presidential Parties-Party at the British Minister's-Brilliant one
given by the Secretary of War-Remarks of a Belle of Jefferson's
days-Description of the " Court of the younger Adams "-Soiree
given by the Dutch Minister-Randolph's Praise of Poverty-Prominent Statesmen and reigning Belles-The Premier's last Party for
the season-Mrs. Secretary Porter-Mr. Clay's Party —Character
of Mr. Adams.
JEFFERSON'S feelings towards the younger Adams
were purely amicable. He had a- high opinion of his
integrity and ability, particularly as a writer; but
sometimes distrusted his temper and judgment.  He
said  in  1816 or 1817: "Monroe showed  his usual
good sense in appointing Adams. They were made
for each other.  Adams has a pointed pen; Monroe
has judgment enough for both and firmness enough
to have ]his judgment control." Adams was Minister
Plenipotentiary  and  Envoy  Extraordinary  to  the
Court of- St. James.  iHe -had been connected  with




124  JOHN QUINCY ADAMS' ADMINISTRATION.
the government many years; was a federalist of the
old school and head of that party after the death of
General Hamilton. In dress and manners he was a
model of courtly refinement. He always appeared
in the Senate in full dress; short small-clothes, silk
stockings and shoes; and was habitually observant
of all the courtesies of life. When Adams accepted
the post of Secretary of State under Mr. Monroe, his
wife took leave of Europe, where she had passed the
greater portion of her life amid a succession of astonishing events. It devolved on her to make the house
of the Secretary an agreeable resort to the multitudes of visitors that thronged the capital during
the session. A large diplomatic corps and a distinguished set of public men, not then divided by party
lines in the usual manner, rendered the society of'that time and of Mrs. Adams' house memorable for
its pleasantness. For a brief time sectional animosities relented, personal denunciation was suspended,
and the jealous rivalry for political honors was
smoothed over, if not quite covered, by the polish of
social life. During the eight years in which Mrs.
Adams presided in the house of the Secretary of
State, she excluded none on account of political hostility. Her aim was to amuse and enliven society,
and her success was admitted to be complete. When
the violence of partisan warfare increased during the
great contest for the Presidency, Mrs. Adams became
inclined to adopt habits of greater seclusion. When
the result made her mistress of the Presidential mansion, her health began to fail her so much that though
she continued to preside upon occasions of public re



MRS. JOHN QUINCY ADAMS.         125
ception, she ceased to appear at other times, and
began to seek the retirement she preferred.
Miss Louisa Catherine Johnson, who became the
wife of John Quincy Adams-was born, educated,
and married in London. She was the daughter of
Joshua Johnson. In advanced age, her children were
accustomed to call her "Madame," and their father
"The President." The utmost deference was systematically paid to both parents. In person she was
petite, with lively manners, very fluent and brilliant
in conversation. Mr. Adams was then about fifty, of
middling stature, robust make, and with every indication of a vigorous constitution. His complexion
was fair, his face round and full and expressive of intellect; his eye black, and of such keenness that it
pierced the beholder. While Secretary of State, he
had from constant use, a weeping eye. But it could
not be said, "He gave to misery all he had-a tear."
A collection was once made to defray the funeral
expenses of a man who had been in prosperous circumstances. The friend who went soliciting contributions among officers of high rank in the govern.
ment found little encouragement.  He was recommended to call on Mr. Adams. "On that iceberg!"
he exclaimed. "It would be folly." However, he
finally went to see Mr. Adams. He looked over the
paper, took out his pocket-book, and handed the young
man in silence, two notes of twenty dollars each.
On the 9th February, 1825, after the formal opening of the electoral packets, it was announced that
Mr. Calhoun had been elected Vice-President; that
no one had received a majority of electoral votes for




126  JOHN` QUINCY  A-DAMS' ADMINISTRATION.
the Presidency, and that the House of Representatives
had thenX to elect a President from the three highest
candidates, Jackson, Adams and Crawford. The Senators retired.  The roll of the House was called by
States; the vote of each State was deposited in a box,
and placed on the table. The tellers, Daniel Webster and John Randolplh, proceeded to open the boxes
and count the ballots. The election of Mr. Adams
was announced by Mr. Webster. Mr. Monroe gave a
Presidential levee that evening, to which all Washington rushed. Goodrich relates that in the course of
the evening Mr. Adams and General Jackson unconsciously approached each other in the throng. Suddenly the persons around, seeing they were about to
meet, stepped aside and left them face to face. General Jackson had a handsome lady on his arm. The
two looked at- each other for a moment, and then
Jackson moved forward, stretched out his long arm,
and said, "How do you do, Mr. Adams! I give you
my left hand, for the right, as you see, is devoted to
the fair; I hope you are well, sir." Mr. Adams took
the hand, and said with chilling coldness: " Very well,
sir; I hope General Jackson is well?" It was curious to see the western planter, the Indian fighter, the
stern soldier, who had written his country's glory in
the blood of the enemy at New Orleans, genial and
gracious in the midst of a court; while the old courtier
and diplomat was stiff, rigid, cold as a statue! It was
the more remarkable from the fact that, four hours
before, the former had been defeated, and the latter
was the victor, in a struggle for one of the highest
objects of human ambition.  Judge Breckinridge




MR. ADAMS AND THE FARMER.        127
thought the repulsive manner of Mr. Adams in public,
owing partly to natural reserve, partly to the diplomatic habit of dismissing all expression from his countenance, derived from his position abroad. "Knowing
his natural warmth of disposition, I was surprised when
I saw him, as the Chief Magistrate of the nation receive a splendidly dressed personage glittering in gold
and feathers, with a formal coldness that froze like the
approach to an iceberg."  After the inauguration,
the multitude rushed as usual, to the White House
to congratulate the new President; General Jackson
prominent in the, throng. He was among the earliest
of those who took the hand of the President, and
their looks and deportment towards each other were
a rebuke to that bitterness of party spirit which can
see no merit in a rival, and feel no joy in the honor
of a competitor. General Jackson, as the oldest Senator present, had that morning administered to Mr.
Calhoun the oath of office. The choice of Mr. Adams
by the House of Representatives had been brought
about through the influence and exertions of Mr.
Clay.
Mr. Adams' cold apathetic manner often created
unpopularity. When he was a candidate for the.Presidency, his political friends persuaded him to
attend a cattle show. Among the persons introduced
to him, was a respectable farmer of the vicinity, who
said, "Mr. Adams, I am very glad to see you. My
wife, when she was a gal, lived in your father's family;
you were then a little boy, and she has often combed
your head."  "Well," replied, Mr. Adams in his harsh
kway,  I suppose she combs yours, now."  The poor




128  JOHN QUINCY ADAMS' ADMINISTRATION.
farmer slunk back. In the House of Representatives,
one day he attacked Mr. Wise with great bitterness,
and in allusion to the Cilley duel, spoke of him as
coming with "hands dripping with blood." There was
a terrible "yarring" tone in his voice, which seemed
to thrill the listeners with horror, rather towards Mr.
Adams than the object of his reproaches.
With the elevation of Mr. Adams, the old controversy, supposed slain at his father's defeat, was reopened, and Federalism appeared living and rampant.
The long, bony finger, the piercing screech of John
Randolph, were raised in execration of the delusions
thus revived. Randolph had an old grudge against
the name and race of Adams, and he called the President " John the Second."  He remembered when, in
but school-boy days, his brother was spurned by the
coachman of the Vice-President for coming too near
the arms emblazoned on the escutcheon of the carriage. In one of his fierce harangues, he spoke of
the union of Adams and Clay as the "coalition of
Blifil and Black George: of the puritan and the
blackleg;" a remark which caused the famous duel
between Clay and Randolph in 1826.
On the 4th of March, 1825, John Quincy Adams
delivered his inaugural address and took the oath of
office administered by Chief Justice Marshall in the
capitol. His cabinet was composed of able and experienced men; Mr. Clay, Secretary of State; Richard
Rush of Pennsylvania, recalled from the London Mission to be Secretary of the Treasury; James Barbour
of Virginia, Secretary of War; Samuel L. Southard
of New Jersey, who had been Secretary of the Navy




A FAMOUS DUEL.             129
under Monroe, continuing in that office; and McLean
and Wirt occupying their places.
Mr. Randolph's duel with Mr. Clay took place in
April, on the right bank of the Potomac, in Virginia,
Mr. Clay's bullet knocking up the gravel behind Mr.
Randolph, who fired in the air. The combatants then
shook hands, Mr. Randolph saying jocosely, "You
owe me a coat, Mr. Clay" —the bullet having passed
through the skirt of his coat. To which Mr. Clay
replied, "I am glad the debt is no greater."  Benton
pronounced this " the highest toned duel he had ever
witnessed." A gentleman noted for love of gossipMr. Ned Wyer-had come dashing upon a group in
the street with the news that the two statesmen had
gone to fight. They had not recovered from their
astonishment when Clay himself joined them; and,
as he did so, he called out, "For mercy's sake, tell
me one thing! Does Ned Wyer know what I have
been about? If he does, it is all over town, and Mrs.
Clay will be frightened into fits!" It happened for
once, however, that the newsmonger had been discreet, and his prudence in the matter restored him to
the favor of Mrs. Adams, who had treated him coolly
for some time because he had introduced at one of
her select parties the wife of a member not very particular in her conduct.
President Quincy carried one of his virtues to excess-early rising. He rose so early in the morning
that he scarcely had sleep enough; so that when he
sat down during the day for ten minutes, he was very
likely to fall asleep. John Quincy Adams was also addicted to excessive early rising. One day these two




130  JOHN QUINCY ADAMS' ADMINISTRATION.
distinguished men went into Judge Story's lectureroom to hear him read his lecture to his class in the
law school. The Judge received the two Presidents
with his usual politeness, placed them on the plat,
form by his side, in full view of the class, and then
went on with his lecture. In a very few minutes
both the Presidents were fast asleep.  The Judge
paused a moment, and, pointing to the two sleeping
gentlemnen, said, "Gentlemen, you see before you a
melancholy example of the evil effects of early rising."
This remark was followed by a shout of laughter,
which effectually roused the sleepers, after which the
Judge resumed his discourse.
On New Years' day it was customary for the Pres,
ident to receive all sorts of company.  They walked
up, presented themselves-if with ladies also to Mrs.
Adams-stalked about through the numerous apartments, tried to catch the refreshments which went
scudding round on the heads of the servants, and
then went home to tell what they heard, saw and
did. "Mr. Adams," said a visitor, "was punished fot
more than two'hours. He stood in the center of the
center-room, and most pathetically shook hands the
whole time. In the ladies' corner it was all chat,
flutter and' graceful bowing.  In the hall a band was
planted, to keep',the nerves of the company in a
proper degree of agitation.  The corps diplomatique
appeared, each in his own national costume."
The library of Congress, though far from being
Completed, was a delicious morning lounge, and frequented by all the fashionables of-both sexes. There
was much amusement in looking over the pamphlets




THE PRESIDENT'S DRAWING-ROOM.       1-31
published about 1801, when the first great civil Trevolution took place, and the marginal notes in Jefferson's small, round, delicate hand-writing. Towards
the last of January the President gave his third
drawing-rootn for the season. By a rule of fashion,
every second levee was considered exclusively fashionable; why, there seemed no reason but the caprice of the gay world. This levee was very splendid,
crowded, delightful and uncomfortable.  Commencing at seven in the evening, it continued to nearly
eleven. The three front rooms were brilliantly lighted
with lustres, and the company entered at the eastern
gate, passing through the large hall where hats, greatcoats and servants were deposited. At the soirees
of the Secretaries, dancing was allowed, with cardtables, backgammon, or chess; but at the President's
there. was nothing but talking, squeezing, promenading, bowing,drinking coffee and sipping liqueurs. The
Secretary of State, the Mayor of the city, and many
Jackson men from the west were present. Every one
seemed looking for something he could not find, except the Lady President, who, from her life and apparent gayety, appeared perfectly satisfied with the
scene. Around a table many of the promenaders
would linger a moment, pledge themselves in coffee
or cordials, gaze in the mirrors, and then saunter after
more compliments. Many of the western members
would sit down and rest, themselves on the superb
sofas; observing that when backwoodsmen get fatigued, they always take a seat on the first stump they
meet. The leaders of the ton were the very. elite of
the principal cities of the Union. "Last week was




132  JOHN QUINCY ADAIS' ADMINISTRATION.
Clay's Wednesday night, and this week has been the
President's drawing-room; on both occasions it was a
perfect jam. Clay's night was distinguished for some
brilliancy, some beauty, plenty of politics, execrable
music, and a solitary cotillion varied with an occasional waltz. On the 9th January, 1829, a party was
given by Mr. Vaughan, the British minister, which
excelled anything that had taken place that season.
Mr. Vaughan was a bachelor, and admitted to be one
of the most polished of that species. Another brilliant party was given at the house of the Secretary
of War. Of all the sparkling festivities of the foreign legations, the gala at Baron M. Krudener's, was
of surpassing effect. The wit and beauty were more
brilliant than had yet bewildered the pleasure-seeking
society of the national capital. The married ladies
were the most admired belles.  One of them was
moralizing over the degeneracy of modern times.
The halcyon days of Jefferson! the glorious, the republican days, when the mind shone forth in its pure
unstudied richness, beyond the power of embroidery,
lace, perfumes, and the accomplishments of modern
music and dancing-masters.  Whip-syllabubs were
not then in fashion, ice-creams were unknown, and a
thousand villanous compounds had not been invented.
Jefferson restored the simplicity which should forever
characterize the court of a free people. In his days,
there were no'drawing-rooms,' no waltzing, no fashionable mobs where death stalked abroad in the shape
of bonbons and confectionery. Jefferson was always
at home, from Monday till Saturday. Whoever called
at the Presidential mansion, the sage would welcome




THE BRILLIANT SCENE.           133
him in his own simple benevolent manner. What a
contrast-the court of the younger Adams'! the gay
drawing-rooms of the prince of diplomatists! The'drawing-room night' in the court circle was Wednesday; then all the worshipers of his Presidential
Highness, arrayed in their costliest, approached the
mansion at the hour of eight. Entering a large door,
the fair visitors passed through a spacious hall dimly
lighted with a couple of lamps hung between the columns in the center. This was the common promenade for cooling themselves. By a door they were
ushered into the presence-chamber, -where the President and Mrs. Adams were encircled with brilliancy
and beauty. A regiment of western visitors crept
along the carpet, and made an attack on the outskirts
of the crowd. Then came a throng of beauties from
the Hudson; and Virginia and the South contributed
their share. They moved forward the De Witt Clinton of the Old Dominion, who in the moment of
gayety throws aside his canals and railroads without
remorse, and becomes the politest, easiest, gayest,
wittiest, and most enchanting bachelor that adorns
the court of the second Adams. Then come the fine
single gentlemen, the flutterers on the edges of society, the butterflies, the Venetian coloring of the gay
world."  The cake, coffee, ice-creams, sangaree, negus,
and other hot and cold liqueurs, cost the President
about fifty dollars a night. "The cabinet dinners are
the grand affairs, where wines and delicious viands
are congregated, and the fair sex are not admitted.
Dancing is to be found in abundance at private parties. The lady mayoress, by the way, is one of the
9




134   JOHN QUINCY ADAMS' ADMINISTRATION.
prettiest dancers of the age. You must not imagine
that we dance at the President's drawing-room."  In
after years it was remarked: " Society in Washington
ought to give the tone to the whole country. It did
so during Mrs. Adams' enchanting, elegant and intellectual regime.  For elegance, refinement, taste,
purity, talent, beauty and worth, the fashionable circle
Mrs. Adams drew around her was far superior to that
which has appeared at any period since."
A last soiree was given by the Dutch minister and
his wife. Their house was esteemed the most intelligent of the legations, and was usually animated and
brilliant. A Dutch belle from New York, was conspicuous for dress and beauty; also a lovely, unaffected girl from Baltimore. "The heir apparent".had just been married and had come out in royal
style at the last levee. That virtuous and patriotic
man, Mr. Macon, called by Jefferson "the last of the
^Romans," had fixed the term of his political existence
at seventy, and touched that age in 1828, in the middle of a third senatorial: term, and in full possession of
all his faculties. He resigned his honors as he had
-won them: meekly, unostentatiously; and after nine.years at home, died in 1837. His was a long, noble
-and exalted career. A soldier in the war of the
Revolution, he had served his country in legislation
forty years; being senator under Madison, Monroe
and Adams, and in the intervals of public duty work-.ing in his fields at'the head of his slaves, and receiving at his hospitable home all guests, from the President to the day laborer. He had two daughtersaccomplished ladies, who married polished gentlemen;




PROMINENT STATESMEN.          135
one of them; William  Martin; the other William
Eaton of Roanoke. He always wore a dress of the
same material, cut and color-superfine navy blue,
of the fashion of the Revolution; with fine linen, a
cambric stock, fine fur hat, and fair top boots outside
the pantaloons. He would wear no man's honors.
Complimented on the report on the Panama mission
which he, as chairman of the committee on Foreign
Relations, had presented to the Senate, he replied" Yes, it is a good report; Tazewell wrote it." Benton called him "the Cincinnatus of America."  William Wirt died at sixty-two, having reached a place
in the first line at the Virginia bar, where there were
such lawyers as Wickham, Tazewell and Watkins
Leigh; with a place at the bar of the Supreme Court,
where there were such jurists as Webster and Pinkney. He had been attorney-general of the United
States under Monroe. In youth he had been near
falling into a fatal habit, but he retrieved himself,
touched by the noble generosity of her who afterwards became his beloved wife; and he grew to be
the model of every domestic virtue, with genius acknowledged by all. He died during the term of the
Supreme Court-his revered friend Chief Justice
Marshall still presiding, and Webster paid to his
memory the tribute of justice and affection.
On the morning of the Fourth of July, 1826only three of the fifty-six signers of the Declaration
of Independence remained alive; in the evening
there remained but one  Charles Carroll of Carrollton, Maryland. He had filled high offices in public
life, had enjoyed the gifts of fortune and health, and




136  JOHN QUINCY ADAMS' ADMINISTRATION.
lived in honor amid " troops of friends " to the age of
ninety-six; then he passed away, the last of a noble
band of patriots.
In the administration of John Quincy Adams men
were not removed from office on account of their
political opinions. He would not consent to do it
even when warned that he would lose a re-election in
consequence. He expected, however, to hold his
place eight years, according to time-honored usage:
and to be succeeded by Mr. Clay, as previous Secretaries of State had succeeded their chiefs. The renomination of General Jackson went against this
theory. Mrs. Jackson's health was precarious, and
having her mind fixed on religious matters, she strove
to turn the General's in the same direction. One
Sunday on the way to church, she entreated him to
renounce the world, and join her at the sacred feast
of the Communion. He answered that such a change
would then be attributed to the desire of political
effect. "Once I am clear of politics," he added, "I
will join the church."
The spring of 1828 set in with great rapidity and
beauty. The last week in March the atmosphere was
balmy and delicious, the fields beginning to look
green, the ladies to become restless, and the poor,
harassed members to get sick of the tariff. That
discussion still drew its slow length along. Some
mixed up the Presidential question with it. Mr. Barnard of New York, in an oration on wool and woolens,
showed himself a good speaker. He had caught some
of the attitudes of Mr. Randolph, and used the white
handkerchief rather gracefully. The fashionable sea



BELLES IN WASHINGTON.          137
son now approached its termination. The last drawing-room had been thinly attended, though several
of the reigning belles were present.  The star of
every coterie for two weeks past had been a young
lady from New Orleans. A famous bas bleu from the
land of pan-cakes was shining in rivalry, her raiment
studded with ten thousand Greek crosses, she having
a true Greek accent, and looking the Sappho of the
age. There was also the wealthy and magnificent
Florida belle, Mrs. White, with a numerous train of
admirers-a dozen orange blossoms in her hair, the
mild light of the gazelle in her dark eyes, and her
bust cased in glittering silver-languishing through
the crowd, who retired to the right and left to permit
her to pass. If met, said an admirer, walking through
an orange grove in Florida, or beside one of the limpid lakes amid the eternal spring, she would instantly
become an object of worship.
"Last week the Premier gave his last party for the
season. The ladies were arrayed in their costliest
habiliments, and the night was extremely brilliant.
Soft and sweet and linguable Salem was there in all
her Attic simplicity of taste and tongue and tasselated ringlets.  Albany was brilliant and dashing;
but what words can describe brilliant, black-eyed
Baltimore, or the gay, spirituelle brunette of Georgetown!'Can't you take cream like a gentleman?'
asked a sharp-faced, fair Pennsylvanian of a Brutus
who was swallowing it contrary to rule. In another
quarter was one talking of the great men and great
events he had seen.  He had shaken hands with
Jackson, eaten beefsteak with Adams, tasted pork




138  JOHN QUINCY ADAiS' ADMINISTRATION.
and molasses with Webster, sipped eggnogg with
Wright of Ohio, walked across the street with Van
Bhren, talked jokes with Clay, nodded familiarly to
Everett, danced with Pennsylvania, feasted with Vermont, perambulated with New York, gallanted the
Salem witches, and knew every secret of diplomacy
better than Clay, and financiering than Senator
Barker.  Red Jacket has made no inconsiderable
sensation among the fashionables. Some days ago
he was sauntering round the rotunda, and, gazing
listlessly on the several paintings which are going
to destruction as fast as damp walls can carry them,
his attention was called to a piece of carved work
representing the landing of Penn and his treaty with
the Delawares. Red Jacket examined it, then, with
a mixture of melancholy and indignation, observed
to the interpreter in his native language, that "Father
Penn had not left them land enough to shoot a rifle
over.'
At the beginning of April, Mr. Randolph made his
appearance. "After the tediousness of a month's dry
siege upon sheep, molasses, hemp and whiskey, the
reopening of his mouth was the opening of a honeycomb," enjoyed by the few fashionables who were determined to stay as long as Congress sat. The reply
he gave to Tristram Burgess of Rhode Island, was
one of the best hits of the session. Tristram was one
of the famous midnight judges manufactured by John
Adams, a reverend looking old gentleman, with a portion of the talent, the respectability and the wealth
which was the boast of the old federalists. One of
his florid harangues closed with a- violent philippic




TRISTRAM BURGESS —DR. COOPER.     139
against all foreigners and aliens. Rising to reply, Mr.
Randolph pleaded guilty of a bias towards aliens, of
no less than thirty years' standing, from the day he
heard the eloquent and learned gentleman from Louisiana (Edward Livingston) deliver a speech against
John Adams' alien law. The alien and sedition laws
were the Castor and Pollux of that administration.
" I see," he continued," whence comes the bitterness
of the gentleman from Rhode Island against the
aliens. It is the ghost of the departed alien law.
We-John the Second-have no longer the right to
remove the aliens out of the country at our nod.
Why, I say, does not the gentleman move to reeinact
the alien law?"
Tristram Burgess' most vindictive, true blue federal feelings were roused when he mentioned the
name of Dr. Thomas Cooper of South Carolina, whom
he called "'a British renegado," though naturalized
nearly thirty years. Every democrat knew what Dr.
Cooper had suffered under the Presidency of the first
Adams. He was then residing in the interior of Pennsylvania, and wrote on public affairs, and especially
against some unpopular measures.  For this, Dr.
Cooper was arraigned before a court of federalists,
and a jury, acting under the famous sedition law.
He was fined and imprisoned. After that period Dr.
Cooper acted with the democratic party. He became
the President of the South Carolina College in Columbia, S. C.
There were at this time in Washington three daily
papers: the National Intelligencer, the National Journal, and the Washington Telegraph. The first had




140  JOHN QUINCY ADAMS' ADMINISTRATION.
been for years the organ of the administration, and
had carried in its train its influence and patronage,
and the patronage of Congress. The Journal was a
mere echo to it, and both presses had been enlisted
against the election of General Jackson.
A very bold innovation was made in December,
upon the rule of fashion. " The famous east room has
been thrown open and the dance introduced.. This
never has been done at the President's levee since
the close of the last war. The inauguration ball will
be a tremendous affair. Last Monday Mrs. Secretary
Porter gave her first party. Mrs. Porter is charming,
and entirely takes the lead of all the gay contemporaries of the day, now in the capital. She has been
the possessor of great personal beauty, and is remarkable for an air of dignity with which her fine figure
well corresponds. She sustains the administration
with her spirit, her cleverness, and her versatile
talents. She is perfectly acquainted with every political man, and Clay himself would not hesitate to
take a lesson from her judgment. Her position as
one of the most popular and influential of the court
circle at Washington, was gained by her noble, sympathizing nature, and the charm of a naturalness of
manner, which set others at ease in her society. In
the midst of Washington gayeties this elegant Mrs.
Porter said she had chiefly worn for a whole winter
one black silk dress-varying cap and collar to suit
different occasions."  "Mr. Clay's first party for the
season was held last night. Heretofore this has been
considered the leading soiree, but it now falls back
and takes its position behind that of the wife of the




HABITrr  OF MR. ADAMS.         141
Secretary of War. Mr. Clay says he is very much
pleased with the election of General Jackson: it has
afforded him much relief; and after the 4th of March,
he mounts his horse, crosses the mountains, and turns
farmer in Kentucky. Little Wright, of Ohio, it is
said, is to be called to the bench in that State. Ichabod Bartlett, of New Hampshire, who was so well
dressed last year by John S. Barbour, has cast his
eye upon Governor Woodbury's seat in the Senate,
if the latter should be called to Jackson's cabinet;
he is therefore preparing the way by a resignation of
his present seat. The English embassy is going to give
Mrs. Adams a splendid ball on New Years' evening."
At another period of Mr. Adams' life, an observer
wrote of him; "Adams was accustomed, when President, to rise early every morning (his habit through
life) and walk from the Presideht's house to the capitol, around the capitol square and back again, before
breakfast; a distance of about four miles. This lihe
did occasionally long afterwards, but the weakness
consequent upon age and sickness, compelled him to
betake himself occasionally to a carriage-a very
plain affair. His habits were regular and his industry
untiring. No event occurred that he did not note
down in a diary kept for that purpose. He was thus
prepared, if assailed, with facts known to himself, but
perhaps forgotten or imperfectly remembered by his
assailant. He had the appearance of great frigidity;
and was seldom on terms of familiarity with any; but
his feelings were warm and excitable, and when a
member of the House, he manifested those feelings
somewhat too frequently."




!142  JOHN QUINCY ADAMS' ADMINIS~TRATION.
The issue of a jeu d'esprit called "The Adams Cat.
echism, for the use of Noble Families and Good So.
ciety," created no'little excitement in social circles.
The sentiments were all inferences or quotations from
the writings of Mr. John Adams. One or two may
serve as a specimen:
"There is not in the whole Roman history so happy
a period as that under the Kings."  "By Kings and
kingly power is meant the executive power in a single person." "Question: What is the duty of a'practised statesman?' Answer: Not to be palsied by the
will of his constituents."
A social imbroglio grew out of some remarks by
the President's son at a drawing-room, which several
ladies chose to resent. They retreated to a sofa in
an adjoining room, and requested one of their attendants to call their carriage immediately. Mr. Adams
protected his son, and the occasion was made the
ground of embittered political hostility. The news
papers rang with the affair. People again remembered the equality of all persons in Jefferson's administration, and that the same principles had prevailed under the benignant reign of Mrs.. Madison,
continuing their influence to the close of Monroe's
Presidency.




VII.
JACKSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
Jackson's Election by an overpowering Majority —Death of his WifeHis Inauguration-His Cabinet-Scandal about Mrs. Eaton-The
Suitor for the President's Pipe-Conspicuous Men-Ladies of the
White House —Webster's Oratory and the Farmers-Albert Gallatin
and his Compeers-Description of Georgetown-Excursion to Norfolk-Fanny Wright as a Lecturer-Specific to change Negroes to
white Persons-Festivities of the Capital —Jackson's celebrated
Toast at a Dinner-Refusal of the Ladies to visit Mrs. Eaton-A
Philadelphian who thought the Senate's rising was in Honor of him
-Changes in the Cabinet-Party at Pointdexter's-Descriptions
and Anecdotes of General Jackson-Threatening of NullificationMr. Clay and Mr. Calhoun-Death of John Randolph-His Character and last Hours-Visit of the Portuguese Minister to the
President.
GENERAL JACKSON was brought into office by an
overpowering majority, and after a series of strong
party excitements.  The man of the people, he commenced his career in the war of the Revolution,
when it was an honor and a pride to be a military
chieftain.  He was appointed by Washington, District
Attorney for Tennessee, and afterwards a Judge of
the Supreme Court; filling with credit seats in the
House of Representatives and Senate of the United
States; and in civil stations displaying strength of
mind, firmness, and integrity, giving him claims to
-the character of a sound and able statesman.  In the




144        JACKSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
dark hour of peril to the country he rendered the
most valuable services; he penetrated the wilderness,
overcame the savage allies of our enemies, and consummated the great work by the memorable battle
of New Orleans. NAo man but Washington ever rendered more important services. It was in his election
that the old Democratic party expected to achieve its
former power, union and triumph. Pennsylvania, that
great pillar of the party, was firmly devoted to him;
Virginia, North and South Carolina, Georgia, and
several of the Western States, were equally firm;
while in New York the opposing party claimed its
head-quarters.
Some of the Nashville ladies were secretly preparing for Mrs. Jackson a magnificent wardrobe, to
be worn at the White House.  But she was to
wear other robes before the accession of her husband. Her disease had been aggravated by the
cruel aspersions cast on her, and in a few days she
died, at the age of sixty-one. The bereaved husband was compelled to set out on his journey to
Washington as President elect. His nephew accompanied him, and Mrs. Donelson, who was to preside in
the Executive mansion, assisted by a beautiful and
accomplished niece. The new President had a triumphal progress, and in Washington received hundreds of visitors at his rooms in the Indian Queen
tavern. General Jackson's delicate attention to Mrs.
Adams, and his request that she would use the Presidential mansion as long as she chose, were noticed.
It was thought strange that Mr. Adams had not called
on the President elect on his arrival in Washington.




JACKSON'S INAUGURATION.        145
A point of etiquette was discussed by the Adams
leaders, and it was generally allowed that as far as
regarded the forms of society and its conventional
rules of etiquette-the moment the votes were
counted before the Senate and the House, the President elect became the center of society. It thus became the duty of the President de facto to call and
make him the. usual compliments.
The Fourth of March, 1829, was ushered in by a
grand national salute, and between ten and twelve
the hum of voices and the din of life pervaded every
avenue of the metropolis, the concourse of citizens
and visitors choking the way to the capitol, and
universal greetings and acclamations cheering the
man who had triumphed over the arms and the
hearts of his enemies. The procession, accompanied
by hundreds of carriages, moved slowly to the senate
chamber. At half-past eleven the President elect was
received and conducted to his chair in the senate
room; a vacant chair being set for the ex-President;
the ministers and.members of foreign legations were
in full costume on the left, and the chairs and couches
in the lobbies resplendent with beauty and fashion.
As the General came forth between the columns of
the portico, all hats were off at once, and the dark
tint which usually pervades a mixed mass of men,
was turned into the bright hue of ten thousand upturned and exultant human faces. The peal of shouting rent the air, and seemed to shake the very
ground. For the last time, Chief Justice Marshall
administered the oath of Presidential office.  The
crowd followed the President from the capitol to the




146       JACKSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
White House.  Judge Story said, "The reign of
King Mob seemed triumphant." Orange punch had
been made by barrels full, and as the waiters opened
the door to bring it out, a rush was made, the glasses
were broken, the pails of liqueur upset, and general
confusion prevailed. Wine and ice-creamn could not
be brought out to the ladies till tubs of punch were
taken from the lower story into the garden, to lead
off the crowd from the rooms. It was mortifying to
see men with boots heavy with mud, standing on
the satin-damask covered chairs to get a sight of the
President.
Mr. Van Buren was appointed Secretary of State;
Samuel D. Ingham of Pennsylvania, Secretary of the
Treasury; John H. Eaton, Senator from Tennessee,
Secretary of War; John Branch of North Carolina,
of the Navy; Mr. Berrien of Georgia, Attorney General; Major William T. Barry of Kentucky, Postmaster-General. General Duff. Green was supposed
to have considerable influence with the President;
and Amos Kendall was taken into his confidence and
began his long official career. Major Lewis, and Major
Donelson the private secretary, were of importance in
Washington society, and Colonel Webb of New York
was supposed to be kept advised of the secrets of the
White House. The episode of Mrs. Eaton, and the
controversy in which the iron will of General Jackson caipe into conflict with the obstinate determination of the fair leaders of fashion and was forced to
succumb, are well known. Major Eaton had married
Mrs. Timberlake, with General Jackson's warm approval. When he was taken into the cabinet, the




THE PIPE AND THE MISSION.        147
ladies of the other members were alarmed at the
prospect of having to receive one whose name was
associated with scandal into their charmed circle.
Major Eaton was a stout, good-humored, agreeable
man, extremely easy and cordial in his manners.
His wife was said to be a strikingly beautiful and
fascinating woman, all grace and vivacity.  Her
rooms were the resort of the ultra partisans of Jackson, and from the General's earnest defence of her, it
was supposed that her favor was the indispensable
preliminary to preferment.
A confidential clerk of Mr. Van. Buren's illustrated
his diplomacy by mentioning that one morning when
he called, he found him writing, and was presently
told to read the letter and say what he thought of it.
"I will tell you what I think, Mr. Van Buren," he
answered, "if you will tell me what it is about."
"' Then it will do: it will answer," said the Secretary,
folding the letter.
One day when President Jackson was smoking in
his private office, a member of Congress, who had set
his heart on a foreign mission, having obtained a clue
to one of the General's weaknesses, came in and
begged as the greatest favor, one of his pipes as a
relic for his old father at home. The General, laughing, rang the bell and ordered two or three clean
ones. "Excuse me," said the member, "but may I
ask you for the very pipe you have just been smoking!" When the General was about to empty it of
the ashes, he was again interrupted with " No, General, don't throw out the tobacco, I want the pipe just
as it left your lips." He folded it carefully in paper,




148        JACKSON S ADMINISTRATION.
thanked the giver, and left the room. In less than a
month he started on his mission, and "it was that
pipe that did the business for him."
One of General Jackson's friends, invited to dine
with him, mentions that every guest was provided
with two forks; one of steel, the other of silver.
The President adhered to the primitive metal.
Postmaster-General Barry seemed to possess- extraordinary abilities, active business habits and exact
knowledge of men and things. He was rather above
the ordinary stature, but thin in face and form. With
an extremely modest deportment, he maintained
strong indications of energy. His voice was melodious, and his conversation fluent and to the point.
He was called a great orator. Mrs. Barry was frank,
yet lady-like, free from affectation, with a fine person and agreeable manners. Major-General Macomb,
lately promoted to the command of the army, while
Generals Gaines and Scott were his competitors, was
young in appearance, and frank and unreserved in
manner.  He seemed disposed to yield to others
rather than assume any superiority in consequence
of his high military rank, modestly waiting for any
place at the table, or in the train of the President.
Majors Donelson and HIays, nephews of the President, were good-looking, stout young men, above the
ordinary height, and well-proportioned, with manly
and modest deportment; just such men as General
Jackson might be supposed to attach to his person. Major Donelson was named Andrew Jackson,
after the President.  Mrs. Donelson was beautiful,
dignified, and very gracious in demeanor. Her only




EMrINTENT STATE:SMIEN.       149
son, a lovely boy of three years old, was the pet of
hits uncle the President. Indeed all the children received -the notice of the Chief Magistrate; even the
little barefooted boys had cause to know his regard
for children.
Miss Eustice, a niece of the President, was admired
for her unaffected and easy deportment. The two
Commodores Rodgers and Warrington were excellent specimens of navy officers; both possessing that
sound judgment and good common sense notion of
things which mark the practical man. General Gibson, an old companion in arms of General Jackson,
should not be passed unnoticed. He was one of the
modest, discreet, sensible men, who, without much
parade, think deeply and do a great deal. He was a
universal favorite, especially with the ladies. Young
Van Buren, the son of the Secretary of State, was
described as having a youthful and manly appearance that gave great interest to his situation, and as
possessing extensive and varied knowledge. There
was nothing supercilious about him; but on the contrary a modesty becoming his years, and an intelligence beyond the ordinary acquirements of young
men. Mrs. Jackson was the wife of the General's
adopted son and private secretary, and a very pretty
woman, but seemea to prefer the tranquillity of
domestic life. to the glare and splendor of official
rank. The idea was unfounded that any jealousy
existed between her and Mrs. Donelson in relation
to the favor of the President.
Mr. Monroe died in the first term of the administration of President Jackson. Chief Justice Marshall
10




150       JACKSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
died in Philadelphia in July, 1835, having been Chief
Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States
thirty-five years; presiding, as Randolph said L"with
native dignity and unpretending grace," He had
solid judgment and great reasoning powers; an acute
and penetrating mind, with manners and habits to
suit the purity and sanctity of the ermine. Seen by
a stranger, he would be taken for a modest country
gentleman, ready to take the lowest place in company; closely observed, he would be seen to be a gentleman of finished breeding and winning conversation.
William B. Giles of Virginia also died during Jackson's Presidency. He was esteemed by Randolph
the Charles Fox of our House of Representatives:
the most accomplished debater in the country. Macon was wise, Randolph brilliant, Gallatin and Madison able in argument: Giles was the ready champion,
always ripe for the combat. He was a gentleman in
manner and heart, and intimate with all the eminent
men of his day. Describing the three great Senators
in Jackson's Presidency, Mr. Goodrich said: 1"They
were all of remarkable personal appearance: Webster
of massive form, dark complexion, and thoughtful,
solemn countenance: Clay tall, of rather slight frame,
but keen, flexible features, and singular ease and freedom in his attitudes2 walk and gestures: Calhoun tall,
erect, and rigid in form, his eyes grayish blue, and
flashing from beneath a brow at once imperious and
scornful. Clay, Calhoun and Pinkney, King, Dwight
and Daggett, stand as high e>xamples of personal endowment in our annals; yet not one approached Mr.
Webster in the commanding power of their personal




EMINENT STATESMEN.           151
presence. There was a grandeur in his form, an intelligence in his deep, dark eye, a loftiness in his expansive brow, a significance in his arched lip, beyond
those of any other human being I ever saw." Two
old farmers, who listened to an oration by Webster,
sat with their mouths open from beginning to end.
When it was over, they rose, and drawing a long
breath, one said to the other: "Well, that was good;
every word seemed to weigh a pound!"
Others were grouped as'"John Taylor of Caroline,
an able Virginian statesman, the personification of
old-fashioned dignity and courtesy; Albert Gallatin,
a dark, swarthy man, whose eye seemed to penetrate
the souls of all who approached him; Henry R.
Storrs, one of the ablest debaters of his day; General
Hayne, the gallant jouster with Mr. Webster; Burgess of Rhode Island, a man of prodigious powers of
sarcasm, who made even John Randolph quail; Silas
Wright of New York, ever courteous, ever smiling —a giant in strength, conquering his antagonists with
such good humor as to reconcile them to defeat."
Mr. Goodrich dining with Mr. Forsyth, met Mr.
Benton, Isaac Hill, John M. Niles, and others. After
the ladies had retired to the parlor, some of the gentlemen lingered at the table. Mr. Forsyth was in
the parlor, receiving them as they came Prom the dining-room. Benton, Hill and Niles, came at last; Hill,
who was lame, said good-night and went to the door;
Benton, an old courtier, paid his respects to the
ladies, beginning with Mrs. Meigs, the mother of
Mr. Forsyth: Niles, in approaching the ladies, was
seized with a panic of bashfulness. Pulling out a red




152       JACKSON S ADMINISTRATION.,
bandanna handkerchief, he gave a loud blast upon his
nose, shot out of the door, and effected his retreat.
In May, 1829, the Hon. Louis McLane was in
Washington, preparing to proceed to England. His
daughter came with him, to remain with the ladies of
the President's family. Mr. James A. Hamilton was
performing the duties of Under Secretary of State, or
rather Chief Clerk of the State Department. Washington Irving was very intimate in the family of Mr.
McLane, and sent messages to the minister's wife
so frequently, that an idea of her elevated character
may be formed from his expressions of regard and
admiration.
Mrs. Louis McLane was the daughter of Robert
Milligan, and married the son of Allan. McLane, of
Delaware, in 1812. After being sent as: minister to
England in 1829, he had charge of the Treasury and
State Departments. One of their daughters married
General Joseph Johnson; another the grandson of
Alexander Hamilton.
Neither Van Buren nor the President had ever been
placed in situations where they could have made
themselves familiar with all the papers belonging to
the Department of State, and the details of business
connected with our foreign relations. It had been
different with other Presidents. Washington had Mr.
Jefferson, who began his political career with the commencement of all our republican institutions.  -Ie
had helped to frame the constitution, and had been a
foreign minister shortly after It, went into operation.
Jefferson was made President after being thus drilled
in all our foreign affairs.  He was familiar with the




THREE PRESIDENTS IN WASHINGTON.    153
business of the Departinent of State and with our
foreign relations. He selected Mr. Madison, who had
the same familiarity with both home and foreign affairs.  Madison selected'~ Mr. Monroe, who had also
bedn a foreign minister.  Mr. Monroe chose'Mr.
Adams, who had been a foreign minister for a long
time. After serving eight years in the Department
of State he was made President.; He selected Mr.
Clay, to whom he could impart his knowledge of the
papers and the details of the office.  The first two
Presidents had assisted in laying the foundation of
the Republic. The four following ones had all served
in the Departrnent of State and could render any
assistance to a newly appointed minister. General
Jackson only had not the advantage of familiarity
with offices. Besides this, Mr. Van Buren had to fit
out more foreign ministers, than any Secretary of
State had ever done in the same time. He hlad to
furnish three or four with instructions on most important subjects. Htis proving himself equal to the
great occasion, tested his character, and his fertility
in resources.
In January, 1830, there were three Presidents of
the United States at Washington —Monroe, Adams
and Jackson. Mr. Adams had taken up his residence
there on account of the mildness of the climate and
the ill health of some of his family. Mr. Monroe was
on his way home from the Virginia Convention, full
of years, sorrow and disease.
"Who that has ever visited Georgetown, our sister
city, has not admired the beauty of her situation!
Sailing up the majestic Potomac, the town is pre



154       JACKSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
sented to you on the north, rising hill over hill, and
displaying the extended rows of streets, and further
on the beautiful moss-covered grounds and variegated
foliage that enclose its rear; the seventh and highest
hill crowning the amphitheatre around the town.
Approaching by the Fredericktown road, the town
appears czompact below, the Potomac seen for ten or
twelve miles. In a further range the eye takes in the
city of Washington, with the White House, the Capitol, and the public buildings on one side of the river,
and Alexandria on the other, about seven miles below. The setting sun shining on the windows of
Georgetown, gives it the effect of an illuminated city."
In July, the President went with a party to Norfolk. There were his private secretaries, Majors Donelson and Hays, Mrs. Donelson and Miss Eaton, the
Secretary of War and his wife, the Secretary of the
Navy and his daughters, the Misses Branch, the Postmaster-General and his wife, Major-General Macomb
and his daughter, Lieutenant Van Buren, aid-de-camp
to General Macomb, General Bernard of the Board of
Engineers, Commodores Rodgers and Warrington of
the board of Navy Commissioners, and others, in all
about fifty. The steamer took the party down the
Potomac to Alexandria, where crowds on the wharf
saluted them; cannons were fired from the ships and
the artillery companies saluted from the head of the
docks.
After a reception of visitors at the landing, the
vessel proceeded to Fort Washington, a fortification
opposite Mount Vernon; the commandant, Major
Mason, received the President with due honors, and




MISS FANNY WRIGHT.           155
conducted the party into the Fort. The ladies were
entertained by Mrs. Mason and the wives of the
other officers. The party proceeded to Old Point
Comfort, where they landed the next afternoon.
Colonel House, the commandant of Fortress Monroe,
came with other officers to welcome them. The concourse of visitors was very great, and the display of
fireworks very entertaining. Hon. Mr. Branchthe Secretary of the Navy-was tall and well-proportioned, graceful in his gestures and affable and
kindly in his manners. His daughters possessed a
full share of beauty and accomplishments, with retiring modesty.
Miss Fanny Wright, about this time, had attracted
much public attention by her lectures, given in the
principal cities. She was undoubtedly one of the
most singular women of the age. Possessing intellectual powers of the first order, and fervid eloquence,
undaunted in the advocacy of her views, and reckless
of public opinion, in an ignorant age she might have
stirred up disturbance, and shaken society to its
foundation. Among the warm admirers of her eloquence were Ming, Blatchley, Tom Skidmore and
other originators of the " Military Hall" party. They
took advantage of the excitement produced by her
lectures to avow their own bold principles. A scientific quack issued an advertisement to the ladies and
gentlemen of color, offering to them a newly invented
chemical agent, warranted to wash them white in six
hours. Dinah, one of Miss Wright's favorite disciples,
exclaimed, on hearing of it, " Guy, massa, spose eberybody's skin white as yellowbaster, what den! Guy,




156            JACKSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
massa, Massa Wilberforce and de phillanthreefists no
care one cent about us after dat.  Hah! we all no
better dan  de white  people  den!"   The following
extract is from  a private manuscript letter:"WASHINGTON, Feb. 18tL, 1830.
" The 22d comes next Monday. Wonderful preparations are
making: the theatre to be converted into a spacious ball-room, and most
beautifully ornamented; the upper row of boxes to be enclosed as a
supper-room, &c.; -tickets five dollars.  There are two other balls on
the same evening; one at Carusi's at one dollar per head, and another
at the Masonic Hall.  General Harrison arrived hero last Friday.
Colonel Torrens is expected in a day or two. You know they say he
is engaged to Miss Vail.  Expectation waits on tip-too the result of
their meeting.  What a loss she would be to Washington, she being
one of the most accomplished of our ladies!' We are almost destitute of beaux this winter.  Our neighbor, the
Baron, and his secretary, seem to be among the most highly esteemed.
There were parties every evening last week.  At Mrs. Dickens'
on Monday evening; she has Miss Bainbridge passing the winter
with her. At Lieutenant Williams' on Tuesday evening.  In that
very small house next Lieutenant Turnbull's, they gave five hundred
invitations.  On Wednesday evening Madame Huygens appeared in
all her glory in a very full, light-colored silk dress, a very broad blonde
flounce around the bottom, and an immensely high and broad headdress, -composed of blonde, feathers and flowers.  The new Mexican
minister made his first appearance there, accompanied by the Secretary
of Legation and Mr. Rivafinoli, decked out in all his orders. Mrs.
O'Sullivan was also there, looking sweetly amiable upon all who approached her.  Mr. Van Buren was very attentive to her, as, I believe,
he always is. Miss Temple and Miss Duer seemed the reigning stars
of the evening.  Waltzing is getting more in vogue every day....
Mrs. White of Florida, he (Mr. Harding), has taken in a royal purple velvet mantle trimmed with fur; it is very pretty, but wants her
intellectual expression.
" Feb. 28th.-Last evening I made my first appearance in the world
of fashion. We went first to a small party at Mrs. Rush's; found her
seated at the tea-table, which was spread with a variety of silver articles




PARTIES AND  DRESSES.                     157
and some very beautiful china.  One of the most conspicuous guests
was Mr. Rivafinoli, an Italian by birth; but having resided in almost
every other country, he seems to have acquired a little manner from
each.  He is engaged here to examine the country about Fredericksburg, and work the gold mine there. At nine o'clock we went to Baron
Krudener's little party. We were received in the front parlor down
stairs, and danced in the back room, and in the little portico we had a
ver2y neat supper. The Kerrs and Munroes were there. There were two
brides-Mrs. Augustus Pleasanton (a runaway match, she being a rich
heiress friom Philadelphia) and Mrs. Hays....  The Baron danced
a cotillion with Mrs. Commodore Stewart's little daughter. Mr. Krehmor was out of spirits, perhaps because Miss PDuer did not arrive
until after ten o'clock, she having just returned from a dinner party
at Mir. Calvert's.  Mliss Silsbee wore a yellow satin dress, trimmed
around the bottom' with two rows of old-fashioned black lace, such as
our grandmothers wore in times of old; then there was a row of the
same around her belt, her sleeves and the neck of the dress.  Sirs.
Silsbee had a white muslin dress, white satin bodice with a very low
point before, and a large white satin cape close around the throat and
falling over the shoulders. There is a great dearth of beaux.
"March 7th. —....  We had a large'dinner-party yesterday.
Some of your friends were here, such as Mr. Vaughan, Barons Krudener and Stackelberg, Count de Menou, lMr. Van Buren, Mr. Rush,
President Adams, &c.  Mr. Van Buren had an immensely crowded
house at his ball on Friday evening.  Miss Easten made her first
appearance there, having been in mourning all winter.  The Secretary
of War and lady were there.  They were also at Mr. Vaughan's ball
last Monday. I have never yet met with her this winter; Count de
Menou told me that he should not invite her. He has given verbal
invitations for Tuesday evening.
" What do you think of Mr. Alexander's having been offered five
hundred dollars for your picture by a young gentleman, who promised
never to divulge the secret that he had it in his possession! He said
he would have a case made for it with a strong lock and key, and no
one should ever suspect that he had it. Mr. A. refused most decidedly.
"JuLIA M. D. T."
It had been a custom in Washington for twenty
years to celebrate the birthday of Thomas Jefferson




158        JACKSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
-April 13,-as the apostle of Democracy.  General
Jackson being regarded by his party as the great
restorer and exemplifier of Jefferson's principles, it
was desired to celebrate the festival in 1830 with
more than usual eclat. The President, Vice-President,
Cabinet, and many leading men were invited to a
grand banquet. It was a subscription dinner. General Jackson gave a volunteer toast that electrified
the country and became historical: cOur Federal
Union: it must be preserved." This sentiment was
received by the public as a proclamation from the
President to announce a plot against the Union and
summon the people to its defence.
Notwithstanding the President's vindication of Mrs.
Eaton, the ladies of Washington refused to receive or
visit her. Mrs. Donelson braved her uncle's anger,
and was sent back to Tennessee, with her husband,
for her contumacy; not returning for six months.
Mr. Van Buren, a widower, who had no daughters,
called on Mrs. Eaton, and made parties for her. He
induced Mr. Vaughan, the British minister, and Baron
Krudener, the Russian minister-both bachelors-to
do the same, and she occupied the post of honor at
the President's side, at a grand dinner given in the
palace. But all availed nothing; the female leaders
of the ton were inflexible; their opposition rent society into sets, introduced discord into the cabinet,
and finally led to its dissolution.
Mr. Francis P. Blair of Kentucky was engaged to
edit a paper which should be the government organ.
lie was slight in person, retiring and quiet in manner
and amiable in character. When he first came to




INTRODUCTION OF 3MR. BLAIR.      159
Washington in obedience to the summons, he was
almost moneyless, with only a frock coat, and had a
great gash on the side of his head from an overset in
the road. Going to dine with the President, he found
a company of ambassadors and other high functionaries, superbly dressed, in the east room. "The tails
of his uncomfortable frock coat hung heavily upon
the stranger, who shrunk into a corner abashed. The
President sought him out, placed him at his right
hand, and completely won his heart. Thus sprang
the Globe into existence."
On May, 1830, a soi-disant leader in the fashionable
world went to Washington. He wished to see the
Senate, and made his entrance at the side door, at
the very moment the full, rapid tones of the VicePresident were heard —saying: "The Senators in
favor of the motion will please to rise."
Half the Senate rose as the man of fashion was
entering. "Gentlemen" he cried-" pray don't rise!
do be seated." Again rose the voice of the VicePresident, putting the negative of the question.
The other portion of the Senate rose. This mark
of condescension overwhelmed the leader of the ton.
"' Why, really, gentlemen," he said, "you do me too
much honor; let me beg you to be seated." When
he returned to the banks of the Schuylkill, he told
his friends that the Senate of the United States was
composed of the politest gentlemen he had ever seen.
At the time of General Jackson's election, four gentlemen who stood preeminent in the political ranks,
were indicated for the succession: Clay and Webster,
Calhoun and Van Buren: the first two political op



160        JACKSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
ponents of the General; the two latter his friends.
Van Buren retired fromn the cabinet, received the appointment of minister to London, and immediately
left the United States. On the evening of the day
when the news of his rejection as minister was heralded in London, he was at a party at Prince Talleyrand's, the representative of the new King Louis
Philippe. He received distinguished attentions; apparently gave himself no trouble about what had happened; came home, was taken up by the people and
elected successively Vice-President and President.
The changes in the cabinet took place in 1831.
Edward Livingston of Louisiana agreed to accept the
post of Secretary of State. Louis McLane was recalled from England for the Treasury; Judge White
of Tennessee was selected for Major Eaton's place;
and Mr. Levi Woodbury was to be Secretary of the
Navy. Judge White declined the post offered him;
and a new man was summoned to the councils, Lewis
Cass, Governor of the Territory of Michigan, who became Secretary of War. Roger B. Taney was made
Attorney General.
The session commencing in 1831 was the great one
of Jackson's administration, and the most exciting
and important one held since the earliest years of
the Republic. Mr. Parton says truly that illustrious
names, great debates, extraordinary incidents, momentous measures, combined to render it memorable.
General Jackson's hospitality at Washington was
as liberal as it had been at the Hermitage, though it
compelled him to eke out his salary by drawing on
his farm proceeds, and to pay for many dinners with




DESCRIPTION OF GENERAL JACKSON.   161
his cotton crop. An English writer described him as
tall, bony and thin, with erect military bearing, and
" a gamecock-look all over him." Energy marked the
lines of his face, and he had a penetrating and sage
look. "His eye is of a dangerous fixedness, deep-set,
and overhung by bushy gray eyebrows; his features
are long, with strong, ridgy lines running through
his cheeks; his forehead is seamed, and his white
hair, stiff and wiry, brushed obstinately back, and
worn with an expression of bristling bayonets. In
his mouth there is a redeeming suavity when he
speaks; but the instant his lips close, a vizor of steel
would scarcely look more impenetrable. His manners are dignified, and have been called high-bred and
aristocratic by travelers; they are the model of republican simplicity and straightforwardness."
Nicholas P. Trist of Virginia, who had married one
of Jefferson's grand-daughters, was at one time General Jackson's secretary, and much attached to him.
Mr. Buchanan used to relate how a daughter of
Charles Carroll, returning from a residence in England, where she was admitted into the circles of the
highest aristocracy, called on President Jackson at
an hour he had appointed. Going a few minutes before, Mr. Buchanan found the President at work in
his office, and not dressed or shaved. He reminded
him of the expected visit; the General retorted by
saying he Sonce heard tell of a man in Tennessee,
who made a fortune by minding his own business!"
He then left the room, and in a few minutes walked
into the parlor as neat in appearance as if he had
passed hours at the toilet.




162              JACKSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
The  storm   of Nullification  threatened  the  Union.
A letter dated January, 1833, says, at Washington,
"Dark and portentous are the clouds which overshadow our land. Deep and settled anxiety is depicted in the countenance of every thinking man.
To-morrow Congress will be called upon by a report
from the Judiciary Committee of the Senate to surrender to General Jackson the use, at his discretion,
of all the civil, naval and military force of the nation."*
The coalition formed between Mr. Clay and Mr.
Calhoun in 1833 was pronounced by Benton "only a
hollow  truce," and kept alive by their mutual interest.
The rupture took place in a few years, in open Senate; and it became a question between them which,
with respect to General Jackson and Mr. Van Buren,
had the upper hand of the other. Mr. Calhoun declared he had Mr. Clay down on his back; that he
was his master. Mr. Clay retorted, "He my master!
I would not own him for the meanest of my slaves."
A newspaper correspondent thus gives a jeu d'esprit, which he designs to be
significant of tendencies at the capital at this crisis:" I know that Mr. Webster dined the other day at the White House, in
company with Isaac Hill, and that the dishes were so cooked in the French
style that neither the great man from the Bay State nor the great man from
the Granite State could eat much. I argue from all this that the coalition
between President Jackson and Mr. Webster is perfect. Indeed, Mr. W. sat
by General Jackson at table, and they conversed confidentially! The other
day I saw Mr. Calhoun and Mr. Clay shake hands and smile complacently upon'
each other; from which I have no doubt that Mr. Calhoun is trying to conciliate Mr. Clay, and bring him over to a coalition, and the South and the
WVest against the North and New England. I know that Edward Everett, the
other evening, went to the theatre to see Miss Fanny Kemble, and that Mr.
Livingston stood up in the pit almost the whole evening. I know that Mr.
Bankhead asked Mr. Clay and the Kembles to dine with him, and that Mr.
Clay was wonderfully pleased with Miss Kemble. I suspected from all this
that Mr. Bankhead was about to bribe Mr. Clay to surrender the American
system to British interests; and as Mr. Clay was at this moment a disap



DEATH OF RANDOLPH.                           163
The so-called "Compromise" designed for the relief
of both, was managed by outside politicians.
John Randolph of Roanoke died at Philadelphia in
the summer of 1833. It was in that city that he had
commenced his brilliant parliamentary career, under
the first Adams.   For more  than thirty years lie had
been the political meteor of Congress, blazing with
splendor undiminished. After a flow of wit and
classic allusion for hours at a time, a friend remarked:
" He has wasted intellectual jewelry enough here this
evening to equip  many  speakers for great orations."
After his return from the Russian mission, and when
he was in full view of death, a friend heard him read
the chapter in the Revelations on the opening of the
seals, with great power and beauty of voice and delivery, and depth of pathos. At the opening of the
sixth seal, he stopped; laid the book open on his
breast as he lay on his bed, and began a discourse on
the beauty and sublimity of the Scriptural writings.
pointed politician, he imagined a dinner might bring him over, or, if not, that
British gold could be added. I know that Mr. McDuffie wears an outer garment not so elegant as it might be. I know that at M. Serrurier's party Mr.
Webster carried on a long flirtation in a cluster of young ladies. I know that
Washington Irving is here somewhere, but none of us will ever find him out.
1 know that John Quincy Adams and Henry Clay talked together an hour
the other day, very earnestly, from which I infer that great mischief is brewing. I know that Mr. Livingston gives elegant dinners, and that his wines
are the best in the city. I know that Mr. Calhoun is a very fast walker and
a very fast talker; few can keep up with him, either in the one or the
other. I know that Mr. Ward-is the chief beau in Congress, and is a great
favorite with the ladies.  I know  that Senator Benton and Editor Blair
walked together up to the Capitol the other day, and that both talked very
earnestly about something. I know that Mr. Pointdexter drives in fine style
four cream-colored horses. I know that the bon ton is divided into two great
parties; one contending that Miss Fanny Kemble has grossly slandered the
Americans, and the other doubting the assertion, or arguing that, as she is
a woman, she ought to be treated well on the stage, &c."




164        JACKSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
According to Baillie Peyton, when McLane was
Secretary Qf State, a new minister arrived from Lisbon, and a day was appointed for him to be presented
to the President. The hour was set, and McLane expected the minister to call at the State department:
but the Portuguese had misunderstood Mr. McLane's
French, and he proceeded alone to the White H-louse.
He rang the bell, and the door was opened by the
Irish porter, Jimmy O'Neil. "Je suis venu voir Monsieur le President," said the minister. "What the
deuce does he mean! muttered Jimmy. c" Ile says
President, though, and I suppose he wants to see the
General."  "Oui, oui," said the Portuguese, bowing.
Jimmy ushered him into the green room, where the
General was smoking his corn-cob pipe with great
composure. The minister made his bow to the President, and addressed him in French, of which the
General did not understand a word. "What does
the fellow say, Jimnmy?" said he. " De'il knows, sir:
I reckon he's a furriner." "Try him in Irish, Jimnmy,"
said Old Hickory. Jimmy gave him a touch of the
genuine MIilesian, but the minister only shrugged his
shoulders with the usual "Plait il?" "Och!" exclaimed
Jimmy, "he can't go the Irish, sir. He's French to be
sure!" "Send for the French cook, and let him try
if he can find out what the gentleman wants." The
cook was hurried from the kitchen, sleeves rolled up,
apron on, and the carving-knife in his hand. The
Minister seeing this formidable apparition, and doubting he was in the presence of the Head of the Nation,
feared some treachery, and made for the door, before
which Jimmy planted himself to keep him in. When




TIE MINISTER AND TIIHE FRENCH COOK.  165
the cook, by the General's order, asked who he was,
and what he wanted, and he gave a subdued answer,
the President discovered his character. At this juncture McLane came in, and the minister was presented
in due form.. It is said General Jackson always resented allusion tothis incident.
Some time in Jackson's second term the celebrated
Gaines suit was commenced. This case is the most
remarkable one in the history of American jurisprudence. Myra Clark was born in New Orleans-the
only child of the wealthy aristocrat-Daniel Clark,
and became a very beautiful girl.;She was taken
away in her childhood after her father's death, by
persons interested in claiming the property to which
she was the lawful heiress, and. was brought up to
womanhood in ignorance of her real parentage and
her rights. Three months before her marriage with
Mr. Whitney, her first husband, a discovery was made.of the mysterious circumstances of her birth and history, and her title to the possession of millions-by
her father's last will naming her sole legatee, and by
her heiress-ship as his only legitimate child.  With,the aid of her husband she entered on the prosecution of her claims with an earnestness and perseverance without parallel, undismayed by obstacles and
embarrassments that might have appalled the most
heroic. Her faith knew no faltering and her courage
shrank from no sacrifice. She was not actuated by a
desire for wealth so much as a determination to vindicate the honor of her parents and the stainlessness
of her birth. After many years of labors long foiled,
of heroic sacrifices, and of a struggle that would have
11




166       JACKSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
exhausted the vigor and even hopes of an ordinary
person, rising from every partial defeat with strength
renewed, and re-entering on the strife with a firm reliance on the justice of her cause, Myra Clark Gaines
achieved a victory that commanded the admiration
and sympathy of the whole country. The Supreme
Court of the United States decided the case in her
favor, against the city of New Orleans and other incumbents on her property. The Supreme Court of
Louisiana, recognizing the justice of her claim, ordered
the last will of Daniel Clark-charged to have been
fraudulently destroyed-to be admitted to probate
and executed. But though invested with an unquestionable title to an estate of millions, the law's delay
and vexatious suits continued to interpose between
her and the fruits of her well-earned victory; while
the civil war postponed her possession of her own.
With patience unabated and heroic hopefulness, she
waited for the resumption of the jurisdiction of the
Supreme Court of the United States over appeals
from Louisiana. She ought now to enjoy her success
without further legal contention. But with a whole
city in opposition and hundreds of purchasers whose
titles are invalidated by her paramount right, there
are still difficulties to overcome.




..........








VIII.
JACKSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
Party at Secretary Woodbury's- Social Etiquette-The President
crowded from his own Table-Popular Churches-Mr. Cass's Party
-New Year's Levee-Amos Kendall-Mrs. Florida White-Presidential Ball and Supper-Mrs. Huntington-Mrs. Johnston-Mrs.
Benton's Coteries —Miss Cora Livingston -Memoir of Mrs. Benton-Her Succor of a poor Girl-The mad Woman's attempt to
kill her, to save her from the Ills of Life-Mr. Benton's timely Interposition-Mrs. Benton's Liberation of her Slaves-Curious scene
of the Execution of the Expunging Resolution-" Spat" between
Mr. Buchanan and Mr. Clay-Society and Manners in Washington-Etiquette of Parties-Amusing Account of a fashionable Soiree
-The rough Kentuckian and his "Jane"-The deaf foreign Minister and the Belle-Nicholas Biddle-Tableau party in Georgetown
-The eccentric Secretary of the Navy-Gorgeous Fancy BallFirst attempt at a Masquerade-Mrs. Forsythe's Parties —Mrs.
Woodbury's-Brilliant one in Baltimore-Miss Martineau and her
Tube-Santa Anna-Scene in the Gallery-Judges of the Supreme
Court-Scene in the Library-The Big Cheese-Amusing Anecdotes
of Jackson's Determination -lemoir of Mrs. Edward Livingston
-Memoir of Mrs. Levi Woodbury.
"WHAT the Secretaries are to do with the ten thousand applications for the freedom  of their drawingrooms, I cannot imagine," was the exclamation of a
visitor at the close of 1835. The gay season opened
with a party at Secretary Woodbury's.  The lady presided with great dignity and grace. Several dashing
belies from  Baltimore, Alexandria and  Georgetown,




170       JACKSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
were present. The President had a long consultation
with the ladies of the several high departments, and
came to the conclusion to change the etiquette of the
season. The custom of dining the members had fatigued the old hero, and the promiscuous assemblage
of the levees annoyed him.  The evening before
Christmas he gave a splendid ball and supper, to a
select invited company. The guests assembled at
nine, the ball was in the east room, the supper ready
in the west room by eleven, and the company dispersed before half-past twelve.  The fashionables
were delighted with this party. "A little set of exclusives is now formed under the immediate patronage of the President, who has set himself to the grand
object of separating the true and acknowledged fashion and rank of the community from contact with
those who are not exactly of the right sort. The social institutions of Washington have too long, in his
estimation, borne a resemblance to the political institutions of the country, and admitted respectable persons from every quarter of the country, without a
very rigid scrutiny into their pretensions as people
of fashion. The system is now to be changed. The
scale established by the President is peculiarly arbitrary; for instance, clerks with three thousand dollars
salary are invited; those of two thousand are excluded.
On Friday the public New Year's levee is to be held;
and to that the Irish laborers, &c., are to be admitted,
in their shirt sleeves, as heretofore."  "Andrew the
First will give an exclusive ball and supper, once a fortnight, hereafter, till the weather is too hot for -dancing and squeezing." Again-: "The President has de



A NEW YEAR'S LEVEE.            171
termined to give no more' exclusives.' The last one
was a shocking exhibition. The members of Congress
brought ladies, and members came from every part of
the city and vicinity without invitation, and pushed
their way in. Sixteen hundred persons were computed to have been present, and, of course, the rooms
were crowded to suffocation. The President handed
Mrs. Forsythe to the upper room; but the mob
rushed past him, and excluded him from the table.'Well,' said he, very properly offended,'this is the
first time that I was ever shut out from my own table, and it shall be the last."'
Mr. Cass had given a splendid party at his residence
to close the year, attended by all the fashionables.
The New Years' levee at the President's was densely
crowded; all the foreign ambassadors, consuls and
charg6s being there in their brilliant costumes, army
and navy officers in full uniform, members, citizens,
etc. The President, flanked on either side by Webster and Van Buren, looked the picture of happiness.
Amos Kendall was present, but none of the clerks of
his department. The levee closed at two, to the
regret of many, who knew this was the last levee
of the season, and that to the private parties which
are henceforth to be the order of the day, they cannot be admitted.
"Mrs. White, of Florida, is here, and report says
she intends introducing a new style of everything.
She has but lately returned from France, and there
is no doubt that she will bear the palm from all party
givers."
Early in February General Scott, in Florida with




172        JACKSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
General Clinch, General Curtiss, General Gaines and
General Macomb, called for five thousand men to
carry on his operations against the Indians. Major
Van Buren-son of the Vice-President, was appointed
Scott's aid-de-camp. The General informed the gallant Major that he might sometimes be obliged to
sleep out in the swamps all night, and that therefore
he had better provide himself with a suit of India
rubber. Accordingly Major Van Buren got himself
equipped from head to foot; remarking to the shop
man: "I am going to Florida, and may want a few
more yards, of your cloth for sheets; if so, I will get
my father to frank them to me." The incredulous
ladies declared they would wear all the scalps sent
home by the Major, and, like Beatrice, eat all the Indians of his killing. On. the 11th February, General
Jackson gave a magnificent ball and supper: the
whole palace being thrown open, and music, dancing
and flirtation enlivening the scene. All the leading
opposition members were present, except the nullifiers. The President was in high spirits. He had
got the news of the adoption of the expunging resolutions by the Virginia House of Delegates.
The lady usually called Mrs. "Florida White," because her husband, Colonel White, represented Florida, was celebrated for her magnificent beauty and
intellectual accomplishments, throughout the Gulf
States. She was Ellen Adair, the daughter of Governor Adair, of Kentucky.  Her sister, Mrs. Benjamin
F. Pleasants, was also greatly admired in Washington
society. These were two of the seven daughters of
Governor Adair, all of whom were women of mark




LEADING LADIES.            173
for beauty and talents. Mrs. White's cousin, Mrs.
Fitzhugh, was a courted belle in Washington in 1842.
She was tall and splendidly proportioned, possessing
a commanding dignity of mien, with faultless grace
in every movement. She was fair, with blue eyes,
and her dark brown hair fell in heavy waves almost
to her feet. Refined intelligence illumined her beautiful face; her eloquence in conversation was fascinating, and the elegance of high breeding harmonized in her with feminine gentleness. She was the
daughter of Dr. Rudd, of Kentucky. Her second
husband was Mr. E. M. Huntington, Commissioner of
the general land office in Washington. President
Tyler offered him the position of Judge of the United
States Court in Indiana.
The house of Mrs. Josiah S. Johnston, of Louisiana,
was noted for its hospitality. Edward Livingston was
not only an associate of Johnston in their public
career, but an intimate friend; and their friendship
was never interrupted. Mrs. Johnston's second husband was Henry D. Gilpin, of Pennsylvania, who
became Solicitor of the Treasury and Attorney General after the election of Van Buren to the Presidency. Richard Henry Wilde, of Georgia, was prominent for some time in the society of this period.
His poetical genius, and literary accomplishments,
rendered him distinguished.
One of the most admired belles in Washington
during General Jackson's administration was Miss
Cora Livingston. She married Thomas Barton, who
went as Secretary of Legation with Mr. Edward Livingston on the mission to France; was left as Charg6




174        JACKSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
des Affaires when Livingston returned, and came to
the United States in 1836, bringing water for the
fire between Jackson and Louis Philippe. The beautiful Mrs. Ashley — afterwards Mrs. Crittenden, was
also the star of the most brilliant circles, and Miss
Octavia Walton from the South, was a celebrity for
her gifts and accomplishments.
The coteries of Mrs. Thomas H. Benton were always composed of the most distinguished persons in
Washington.  Chief-Justice Marshall, Mr. Randolph,
Chief-Justice Taney, Mr. Mason of North Carolina,
Mr. Archer, Mr. Van Buren, and many others, with
her own relatives, formed her select circles, which
were historical in this administration. She was the
daughter of Colonel James McDowell, and related to
half the first families of Virginia.
Mrs. Benton came to Washington soon after her
marriage, and for more than twenty years was one
of the most distinguished members of its society.
Mr. Benton's position as leader of the powerful and
victorious Democratic party, and her own as belonging to one of the most prominent Virginia families,
added to the influence exercised by her own force of
character and the rare vigor of her mental faculties.
Mr. Benton was one of the fortunate public men in
whose homes the domestic altar is a sacred fact and
not a figure. The repose and strength gained in such
a home makes so much a part of the power of a man's
public life, that it should not be omitted in speaking
of him. The families of both were connected with
the most noted in the State, the Prestons, Madisons,
Peytons, Randolphs, &c.  Many members of Mrs.




MRS. THOMAS a. BENTON.         175
Benton's family were conspicuous in the country's
history. She first entered society in Richmond while
General James Preston was Governor of Virginia;
and everything bore the stamp of its English origin,
the conservative feeling being very strong in the
neighborhood of the young lady's home. Yet her
mind, gifted with rare force, saw for itself, and convictions gained strength which governed her own
life and shaped the principles and fortunes of her
children. Accustomed to the most liberal hospitality
in her father's house, spending every summer at the
then chief watering-place of the country-the White
Sulphur Springs, while the winters were passed in Richinond-traveling to and fro in her own carriage imported from London-a big, yellow chariot lined with
red morocco, christened Cinderella's pumpkin by the
next generation-with maid and men-servants, harness and saddle horses-endowed with health and
high spirits, having no experience of grief or want
to give her insight into the needs of others,-there'
came to this young heart the conviction that there
must be another side to the repulsive tales she had
heard associated with 1" liberal views." Her marriage
took place at the time Missouri was admitted as a
State, and the law was made providing against the
extension of slavery beyond its borders. In all that
belonged to large and humane measures Mrs. Benton
took part, and brought her influence and talents to
bear especially on the subject that had forced itself
on her mind-the emancipation of the negro race.
Prominent southerners of that time looked to gradual
emancipation and colonization.  Chief-Justice Mar-.




176        JACKSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
shall, Mr. Randolph, Mr. Mac-on of North Carolina,
Francis Key, and Mr. Pinckney of Maryland, William
C. Preston of South Carolina, Mr. King of Alabama,
and Dr. Linn of Missouri, were among those anxious
for such a remedy for an evil felt to be growing and
threatening. Mrs. Benton not only gave her slaves
their freedom, but a support till they were able to
maintain themselves, Colonel Benton sanctioned this
not only from conviction, but for "the honor he bore
his dear ladye."  He refused the bequest of a plantation and slaves from a brother who died in Louisiana.
Mrs. Benton had other sacrifices to make for conscience sake. She was one of nine Presbyterians who
met for worship over a saddler's shop in St. Louis,
then a mere village settled by French and Catholics,
to whose prejudices the newer settlers conformed.
The form of religious service to which Mrs. Benton
attached herself was esteemed vulgar, but she gave
to its support her position, wealth, talents, and her
example of true piety. Her charities and co-operation in all good works left such an abiding impression,
that in the early part of the civil war, many contributions of clothing, wine and other comforts for the
hospitals, were sent to her daughter Mrs. Fremont,
with a line or message to say they were not sent, to
the wife of an "Abolition officer," but to the daughter of Mrs. Benton, who in her day had helped all
without distinction of religion.
Thus passed this useful and brilliant life-alternating between her early home in Virginia, and her winter home in Washington; with visits to her house in
St. Louis, and with her husband in bNew Orleans-for




A STARTLING PERIL.           177
some twenty years. In person Mrs. Benton so. closely
resembled Girard's portrait of Madame de Stal, that
it is held by her family as better than those taken
from life of herself.
In the early part of her married life she received
the shock which caused her years of ill health, resulting at last in her death. She had succored a poor
girl, who became crazed by shame and sorrow, and
had procured her admission to the lunatic asylum
in Stanton. When discharged as harmless though
incurable, the poor creature haunted the neighborhood of Mrs. Benton's home, delighted to receive the
presents brought for her on the annual visit. One
day the demerIted woman came into the house to see
"Miss Betsey," as she called Mrs. Benton, and found
her asleep in her room. In her jangled brain stirred
the thought that it would be an act of love and
gratitude to the dear young lady to kill her as she
slept, and save her from her own agonized experience
— a father's curse when her child should be born, expulsion from her home, and desertion by him she had
loved too well. Mr. Benton in the next room heard
a whispering, sobbing sound, and came into his wife's
chamber just in time to arrest the heavy bough of a
tree which the maniac had lifted to dash it with all
her strength on the sleeper's head. Mrs. Benton
-started from slumber to take in her danger at a
glance: the descending bough, the interposition of
her husband, the mad woman struggling furiously in
his grasp; and the effects of the fright were most
disastrous. The death of the delicate child born soon
afterwards, her own lengthened sufferings, and the




178       JACKSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
terrible jar to her nerves, gave a downward turn, that
ended in the complete breaking down of the nervous
system. Yet the noble principles and acts of her life
continued to sustain her husband. Her numerous
acts of charity will never be known: but the poor
who came to her funeral, the men in high position
who standing by the dead said to her daughter" But for her I was a lost man. What I amn- now I
owe to her admonitions and encouragement:"-the
women who acknowledged her aid, helping them
through the dark hours'when suicide or desperate
bravado seemed their only resource-helping them
back to unquestioned security of reputation —all
testified to her Christian upholding of those who fall.
Her faithful colored servants, too, who remained with
her on wages, were witnesses that neither wealth nor
worldly honors, nor mental powers nor the attractions
of society, had won her to live for herself. She often
referred to Jeanie Deans' words to the Queen of
England, —" It's not what we hae done for ourselves
my leddy, but what we hae done for others, will help
us then."  Mr. Benton, too, called to mind the Baillie's
saying, —" Some men were ower gude for banning,
and ower bad for blessing-like Rob Roy" —particularly when he gave his opinion that "party was too
tremendous an engine to use against a poor clerk
whose salary was all that stood between his family
and starvation, and too small a consideration where
the national honor was involved."
Those two sayings embody the ruling principles of
those two noble lives-so harmoniously united that
one cannot be written separate from the other.




PROMINENT MEN.             179
On the night of the passage and execution of the
expunging resolution, Mrs. Benton, anxious for the
safety of her husband, and knowing him obnoxious
to the Bank party, was near him in the Senate
chamber. It was the last scene of a seven years'
contest with that great moneyed power.  When
the Secretary of the Senate began to'perform the
expunging process, a storm  of hisses, groans and
vociferations arose in the gallery over Benton's
head. The presiding officer ordered the gallery
cleared; but Benton opposed the order, bidding the
sergeant-at-arms seize only the Bank ruffians, and
pointing one out. The ringleader was seized and
brought to the bar. General Jackson gave a grand
dinner to the "expungers" and their wives; and
being too weak to sit at table, with the compadny,
placed the "head expunger" in his chair and withdrew to his sick chamber.
Commodore Rodgers, tile great naval commander
who died early in Van Buren's administration, was
then prominent. His form and face were those of
the naval hero. He was at the head of the Ameri-,can navy, but did not see the rank of admiral established in our naval service. Mr. Rives was an easy,
graceful, fluent speaker. He never dealt in sarcasm
or invective, always treating his opponent with the
courtesy of a gentleman. He was in consequence
esteemed by both parties; though not much liked
by the ultras. Mr. Clay's eloquence was described
as that of Jupiter Tonans; the fearless independence
of his mind being always discernible. Experience, he
once said, quoting Coleridge, "is like the stern lights




180       JACKSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
of a ship, to most men; illumining only the way it
has passed."
On the 29th March, "Andrew Stevenson, minister
to England, was in the House to-day looking remarkably well and in good spirits. He is to go out as
soon as a national ship can be got in readiness to convey him."
On the 1st April, "Mr. Buchanan and Mr. Clay had
what the Yankees call a bit of a spat. Mr. Buchanan
had spoken of his adventure at a certain battle, in
which he came too late to do any active service; but
Mr. Clay tried to show that the gentleman's age could
not have been at that time more than twelve, and
wished the ladies in the gallery were more numerous, to hear the exploits of such a youth. Whereupon Mr. Buchanan blazed out in wrath. Mr. Clay
was cool as an ice-house, and the Senate and galleries
were convulsed with laughter."
An observer wrote: "The soirees of the Secretaries usually commence from nine to ten; all the
apartments being thrown open; from seven to nine
hundred are invited, though generally not more than
half that number attend. The host and hostess stand
in the drawing-room to receive the company. Dancing, conversation, and cards, are the amusements of
the evening; the first left to the young people; the
elder and middle-aged participating in the latter. A
small band of musicians is stationed in the ball-room,
where the young girls and beaux are conversant with
the'poetry of motion.'  Light refreshments circulate through the different apartments. At about
eleven the guests partake of a collation or supper;




A FASHIIONABLE PARTY.         181'
about three they begin to retire, and at four the
lights are extinguished. At the soiree of a Secretary, entering about ten, I wound my way into
another room and found a diminutive woman gaudily attired, hanging on the arm of the Secretary
of the Navy, who is six feet high and whose pantaloons were somewhat deficient in length.'Dear me!'
exclaimed the little Miss;'-What a crowd! I really
never saw anything like it in Jersey. Don't you
think it's enough to make one faint?' The Secretary
smiled and observed that it would be very inconvenient to faint there, as water was an article that
could not be had at a party in Washington.'Pray
who' asked the young lady,'is that strange looking
man with the dirty black mustache, talking to that
enormous lady in black velvet?'' That is one of the
representatives of the Northern Bear, the great autocrat of all the Russias.''Is it possible! Well, on a
closer inspection, I don't think him so very frightful
after all,' and they moved off, that the young lady
might be introduced, leaving me alongside of a tall,
gawkish looking young man, whom I soon ascertained
to be the Earl of S-, a young Scotchman, who had
come to visit some land he owned in America. He
was very silent and awkward, and seemed to be under the special guardianship of the British minister,
and a Scotch attach6. The sound of music produced a
rush towards the ball-room, where I found myself stationed behind a lady of no particular age, most absurdly and fantastically arrayed.  She was the sister
of the host's wife. The waltz was in favor, and the
various couples whirled round with such bewildering




182        JACKSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
gyrations, I was almost dizzy with merely looking on.'I declare!' cried the lady above-mentioned,'I begin
to feel the effects of old age.' She was about forty,
and no doubt expected her attendant cavalier to contradict her; but he was half choked with a piece of
pound cake, and could not have managed to utter a
compliment.
"'How I envy that lady hanging on the arm of
the Vice-President,' continued the lady.'Pray who
is she?' asked the gentleman.'She is a kind of female clerk in one of the public offices. Her father
has acted the Vicar of Bray so admirably as not only
to keep himself in office, but his whole family; they
have realized an income from the public crib of about
six thousand dollars a year. Not less than six of
them go to every party during the winter; never failing to make a deep impression on the ice creams and
confectionery. That one believes her beauty of the
Spanish style; and she endeavors to dress and act the
Spanish belle; but it won't do. The less she says the
better; for when she keeps her mouth closed, it is
impossible to find out the small capital on which she
trades.':" Indeed, I think you are inclined to be somewhat
satirical this evening,' remarked the gentleman.
"' cNot in the least,' replied the belle of forty; and
she gave a killing toss of her head, that threw a long,
straggling, artificial curl into one of her eyes; which
so affected her vision, she immediately withdrew to
apply some palliative to her injured organ. Their
place was supplied by a couple fresh from the country; a rustic pair invited by some accident.  The




THE STRAPPING KENTUCKIAN.        183
beau, a tall, strapping Kentuckian, lad taken a saucer of frozen Roman punch, which he had never tasted
before. He had no sooner put it into his mouth than
he exclaimed;'I swar, Miss Jane, this beats julep all
to nothing; who ever thought of chawing ruin!'  The
servant stopped near him with, a tray on which stood
a pyramid of candied oranges.  Peering at it with
great curiosity, he took hold' with his fingers, and
broke off a large piece, which stuck to his fingers so
tenaciously, that, finding he could make- nothing of it,
he thrust it into his pocket, and began to suck his
fingers to clear them from the adhesive substance.
Miss Jane had helped herself to- an- ice-cream and
sundry comfits in large quantities. Presently their
attention was caught by a fashionable dance- the
Mazurka —just commenced.
"'Well, I'm shot if that don't beat Burke,' cried the
Kentuckian.   There's a fellow that looks like Walkin-the-Water-kneeling-: to a lady, while the rest
get round him like a parcel of Indian squaws! I'm
smashed if they haven't been taking lessons from the
Osages.' A clapping noise called my attention to the
dancers, now arranged in two- lines extending the
whole depth of the room, and I saw the Scotch attache stamping with his: feet, and clapping his hands,
as if he thought he was dancing the Highland' Fling.
The whole man was in motion. One. of the members
was denouncing the exhibition, and saying he would
sooner witness a parcel of Choctaws or Winnebagoes perform the war dance. Entering another less
crowded apartment, I saw a pretty girl and a young
naval officer seated on a sofa, discussing Baron Kru12




184        JACKSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
dener's party and a belle in Turkish costume who had
tried her arts to captivate the old diplomat, seemingly
determined to live and die a bachelor. But she talked
French and showed her white teeth to him in vain.
His deafness compelled her to scream her soft nothings into his ear to the occasional annoyance of the
company.'Baron,' in her most bewitching tone,'-I
should like to waltz.''Oui, oui,' responded the Baron,
il fait fort chaud: very hot, warm, oui.' CI am not
speaking of the heat, but of dancing,' ventured the
belle, a little louder.' Oui, she is tres jolie, I'ave say
so to her.''Baron, you will not hear me.'
"'Oh, dat mamselle is certainement var pretty;
but she'ave bad teeth. I'ave told her she was
pretty in spite of her teeth! ha ha!' and with this
stale joke he moved off; to the mortification of his
companion. Stimulated by champagne, the charge
at length became so amorous, that in-the ecstacy of
the moment, he exclaimed to his fair companion:'I
vil bite your chin off.' The next subject was a lady
who came to Washington as an heiress and was pronounced a belle, till it was ascertained that she is
one of a family of six children.
"'Tired of gossip, I followed the crowd into the
supper room, and was again beside an honorable
member, doing justice to the viands and champagne:
bolting down oysters, pheasant, tongue, &c., and
moistening them with copious libations. Another
member asked — why he was like a clerk?''Because
he is fond of salary.''But why is his mouth like
Athens?''Because it is the centre of Greece.'
The strapping Kentuckian had found his way in with



AT THE SUPPER-TABLE.          185
out his fair companion, and seemed ready to devour
everything.' Mister' —he began, c I'll thank you for
a piece that thar duck.' c It's a pheasant,' replied the
other.'A pheasant! what-that thar? you're makin'
game of me.'' But you shan't make game of me! -will
you be helped to the wing or the leg?''I'll take
both.' The whole fowl was handed to him, then he
cried- Waiter, I'll thank you for a glass of that
cider.''It is champagne, sir,' said the servant smiling. As he tossed off the glass, he exclaimed,'I'm
smashed if this don't beat old Kentuck' all to shivers!
Give us another glass, mister, I could drink this here
truck all day.'"
"' Pray who is that making such formal preparations'for a regular siege to the good things?' asked a
member, pointing to a little man with a broad face
and a smile on it.'You might tell, from the manner
in which he provides for himself, that he is the
chairman of the Committee of Ways and Means.''And that round-faced, jolly-looking personage making love to the Sherry, Madeira, &c.?''The chairman of the Committee on Foreign Relations.''And
to what Committee do you belong?''I am a member of the Committee of the Whole. The Speaker
has sometimes wished to put me on the Committee
of Unfinished Business; but I have always begged
off; and so, if you please, we will finish our last bottle of champagne.'
C In the dancing-room I saw a fine looking woman
elegantly dressed, leaning on the arm of a Senator,
and surrounded by gentlemen eager to pay her attention; a chaplet of roses rested on her head, and




186        JACKSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
she handled an ivory fan with skill and effect. I was
told the attaches and other" foreigners. sought her society because she could speak their own languages.'She has a soirde every Monday,' said my informant,'but allows no dancing and wishes her parties to be
considered merely conversaziones.'
"It was now -two o'clock, and going into the dressing-room, I found the tall Kentuckian in a dreadful
pother about the loss of his cap, which he said he had
given a servant to take care of in that room.'I say,
mister, ain't that thar my cap you've got in your
hand! I'm  smashed if some scamp hasn't made off
with my cap!' and he tore up the pile of hats, cloaks
and caps like a dog scraping loose earth.'A lady waits for you,' said the servant.'Tell Miss
Jane I can't go without my cap, and I'm shot if I
don't have it in spite of all natur.'
"Such is a sample of the fashionable soirees of
Washington."
Ever since General Jackson came into office and
developed his opinions and theories on the currency,
Mr. Biddle had been the effective head of the opposi-.tion to his administration; sometimes in secret, sometimes openly. Webster, Calhoun, Clay and others
were merely powerful instruments set in motion by
the great magician in Philadelphia, as a counterpart
to the art with which the great magician of New York
-Martin Van Buren-moved the President and his
cabinet at Washington. The master spirits of the
two opposing parties for the last eight years, now
flung aside each his silver veil, and appeared in the
arena armed and equipped. Both were powerful,




A FANCY BALL.              187
original, and remarkable men; perhaps without an
equal in their peculiar traits of thought. In the suminer of 1833 Mr. Biddle was seen coming out of the
Mansion House in Philadelphia, and said to an acquaintance-smiling in his half-sarcastic, half-earnest
way: "I have just been paying my respects to Mr.
Van Buren. One magician should always treat another with courtesy when he passes through his dominions."  Mr. Van Buren was then holding a levee
at Head's.
Reuben M. Whitney was handled severely by Wise
and Peyton in the House of Representatives; and he
was accustomed to retort with simnilar epithets. Mr.
Wise was called an imitator of Randolph, and was at
this time rather young, though his hair was sprinkled
with gray. He was bold, fearless and independent,
high-minded and patriotic. Not so highly cultivated
-as the orator of Roanoke, he had not his ferocity of
spirit, with equal energy and a better regulated disposition. His style was more vituperative than satirical;
his illustrations were not classical, though often felicitous. He quoted more from the Bible than the poets
or classical writers, yet was sometimes irreverent.
An amusing fancy ball was given in January, 1837,
by a matron anxious to work her way into fashionable society. There were kings and queens, shepherds
and shepherdesses, &c., in all manner of ludicrous
costumes; and a fat, blowsy-faced "Virgin of the
Sun," said to be the mother of ten children. An Hibernian dressed as Shylock told her she was brilliant
as the sun itself. At a party given in Georgetown
by a colonel who liked to imitate European fashions,




188        JACKSON S ADMINISTRATION.
tableaux vivants were introduced. The figures sat
in a rich and spacious frame, and resembled a lifesized picture. The wife of a clerk in one of the
offices appeared as a bandit's bride; another lady of
magnificent rotundity in the costume of a sylph.
Santa Anna was expected hourly in Washington
and it was thought his coming was to persuade Congress to recognize the independence of Texas. At
this period it was not usual for the Executive to visit
or attend parties, though he might give as many as
he pleased. It was expected that one of Mr. Van
Buren's sons would be married, and would reside in
the palace with his father after his accession.
Colonel Johnson had no personal dignity, and was
not fluent; but was clever and amiable. He, as well
as the President elect, seemed fascinated with the
performances, at the theatre, of Miss Clifton. That
magnificent creature was quite a Patagonian, and
"small men were always more pleased with large women than with little ones." One of the first attempts
to get up a masquerade in Washington was by a
Major of marines, assisted by the boarders in a fashionable establishment. A gentleman went in the
dress of Diogenes.  He was reminded that he had
forgotten his lantern and that it required cc a stronger
blaze than that of a lantern to find out an honest man
in these days."  An apparent Hibernian enquired,
"c which of these ladies is the masther of ceremonies?"
and when the presiding lady stepped up to him, he
introduced himself as c "Dennis O'Lary, from Cork, in
the county of Dublin in the south of Ireland, and
have a cousin in the Herald office in London."




TWELFTHI NIGHTT BALL.           189
The parties at Secretary Forsythe's were noted.
At Secretary Woodbury's evenings Mrs. Woodbury's
suavity and ease of manners were generally admired;
as well as her exceeding grace of deportment. She
possessed great beauty of face and form, and was said
to resemble Mrs. Madison, one of the most popular
women in society. She always put strangers at their
ease, and was particularly attentive to the awkward
and embarrassed. The British minister, Mr. Fox,
a"never makes his appearance at the soirees. He is
a perfect oddity. The Secretaries have all left their
cards at his residence; but he has not returned a
single call, and is therefore not invited to the parties.
Mr. Fox is the first barbarian that ever England sent
to a civilized court."
A distinguished lady of fashion in Baltimore, Mrs.
Meredith-gave a party at the Assembly Rooms which
was attended by all the beauty, taste and fashion of
Baltimore and Washington. It was given on "Twelfth
Night," and the curious olden ceremony was introduced of cutting the cake and contending for the ring
imbedded among the sugar plums. The Assembly
rooms were fitted up with great magnificence. Miss
Meredith "looked a fairy in fairy land."  Her elegance, grace, and peculiar na'ivet6, were greatly admired. Mrs. T. Oldfield was charming and fascinating, and, with Mrs. N. P. Willis, was conspicuous in
the reel. Mrs. Skinner was dressed in a very beautiful though old-fashioned style. Miss Ackerman and
her sister from the South, had many distinguished
men in their train. Miss Traverse was a brilliant
beauty, Miss Belt a perfect Hebe; Miss M. Patterson




190       JACKSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
-of a race that adorned the highest ranks of the British court-was elegantly attired; Miss Carroll too;
and her name and lineage were a passport. Among the
debutants were two lovely daughters of Judge Ma.
gruder.  Miss C. Barney called to mind the lovely
Rowena, and Miss E. Gilmore's smile was bewitching.
The cake was placed on a table in the supper room.
Scores of lovely girls and expectant gentlemen were
crowding around it, eager to obtain. the prize. "I've
got only a plum!" cried one. "I've eaten the whole
slice, but there's no ring," exclaimed another. At
last there was a burst of merriment, and a soft hand,
that of the mayor's daughter, held up the prophetic
ring. J. P. Kennedy, one of the principal literary
men, was there; also Major Van Buren, said to be
engaged to a western lady, whom he had seen blooming somewhere among the prairies, during his Black
Hawk expedition. There was also Judge Thompson,
of the Supreme Court, Mr. West, the son of Lord
Delamar, Mr. Dangerfield, and others.
"The President's palace was closed to the fashionables this whole session, in consequence of the indisposition and death of Mrs. Donelson. The theatre
and concert were the resort of the beau monde; the
fashionables holding back for a splendid fancy ball, to
be given by the patroness of the blondes. The ladies sometimes made a great noise in the gallery, and
were now and then called to order, or requested to
be less talkative. While Colonel Bell was Speaker
of the House, he sent up a messenger to inform a
party of ladies and gentlemen who sat in front of
the chair, that their courtship must be carried on in




]MISS MARTINEAU'S TRUMPET.      191
a lower key or elsewhere, if they did not wish him
to be acquainted with it. Miss Martineau was in the
gallery one day, and surrounded by a crowd of such
as thought they derived importance from her company. She was unfortunately deaf, and used a silver
trumpet, applied.to her ear when she wanted to hear
what was said to her. The noisein her immediate
circle was considerable. The rough door-keeper came
to her and told her she must make less noise. Miss
Martineau immediately applied the tube to her ear.
"You needn't put that'ere thing to your ear; you
make noise enough without it," growled the old Cerberus, to the amazement of the illustrator of the principles of political economy.
When the gallery of the House had been fearfully
crowded, at the trial of Judge Peek, a little chunk of
a man had got wedged into one corner, and apprehensive of being smothered, he made a desperate attempt to get out, crying lustily for egress.
"Order!" shouted the marshal. The burly little
prisoner still endeavored to make his way to the
door, repeating the cry, " let me out."
" Order in the gallery!" again thundered the marshal. "If you don't keep order, I'll turn you out."
"That's just what I want 1" screamed the little man.
"Let me out or turn me out, I don't care which."
The whole gallery and chamber were in a roar.
The most gifted of the delegation from Ohio was
Mr. Corwin. He astonished the House by his eloquent speech against the bill reducing the Tariff in
January of this year. Mr. William C. Preston, in the
Senate, exhibited his usual splendor of declamation




.192       JACKSON S ADMINISTRATION.
and rhetorical coloring. His declamation was thought
by some too artificial. General Ward was called
"The Chesterfield of the House," and George IV.
could not have made a more condescending bow than
he, to everybody he met.
Mrs. R. M. Whitney's party was a splendid affair,
and the refreshments were abundant. The ex-President, Heads of Departments, Foreign Ministers, Mr.
Fox excepted, and members of Congress, were among
the guests. Mr. C. C. Cambreling was conspicuous,
and pronounced superior to his great model, Julius
Cesar, in his three Cs: for he might have said C"I
came, I caught, I conquered."  Mrs. Cambreling was
noted for grace and suavity of manners.
The chamber occupied by the Supreme Court had
now become a place of fashionable resort. It was
then immediately under the Senate chamber, and
lighted from the east. The Judges wore robes; the
clerk of the court was a pompous appendage to the
bar, dealing in the grandiloquent style. Each Judge
was furnished with a handsome mahogany desk surrounded by a plain railing, and a mahogany arm-chair
covered with velvet. A desk was set apart near the
clerk's table for the Attorney-General, and cushioned
sofas were placed on each side of the room for the
audience. Judge Baldwin, among those who occupied the bench, was a Pennsylvanian, plain in his
manners, social in his habits and amiable in his disposition. He treated the rich and the poor, the humble
and the exalted, with equal courtesy and kindness.
While a member of Congress, it was said of him, as
once of Sheridan, he always, c" hit the House between




ANTECEDENTS OF THE CHIEF JUSTICE.   193
wind and water."  He was a sound lawyer, and exceedingly popular.  Judge McLean was in person
tall, well-formed, and graceful; sedate, grave and
modest; regular in his habits, temperate in all things,
laborious and indefatigable in the discharge of every
duty. He made up by industry for the want of quickness. His judgment was never warped by prejudice,
nor led into error by the imagination. He never allowed feeling to enter into his legal investigations;
though it was indicated by acts of benevolence and
generous sympathy. His mind was more logical than
metaphysical, and he liked demonstration better than
speculation.
A newspaper writer described at a party: "That
tall, narrow-faced, but good-looking man-the ChiefJustice of the Supreme Court. He and I, some thirty
years'ago, were small lawyers in a small county court
in Maryland, satisfied with the humblest fee for wear
and tear of intellect; and now he is at the head of
the highest judicial tribunal in the United States.
When I first knew him he had an impediment in his
speech, which he still retains, but to a much less extent. He was exceedingly modest, retiring and unassuming. As he rose at the bar his ambition became
inflamed, and he plunged into the vortex of party
politics, and became a federal demagogue in a State
where democracy had the ascendency. He devoted
his days and nights to his profession; was made Attorney-General; was appointed Secretary of the Treasury;-and finally was elevated to the Chief-Justiceship
of the Supreme Court of the United States, in the
place of one'whose like we ne'er shall see again.'




194       JACKSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
"That gentleman of medium size and intelligent
countenance, with gray hairs, and'spectacles on nose'
is his associate, and should have been the Chief Justice. Judge Story is a man who, like Blackstone, commenced life as a poet, and published a volume on
Solitude. He is a fine belles lettres scholar, writes
well on all subjects, and is profoundly versed in the
science of jurisprudence.  His mind is acute, penetrating, and comprehensive, not too refining and metaphysical, but by the application of analysis arriving
at just- conclusions and reaching truth by the process
of sound logic. Though his arduous judicial functions require much of his time and attention, he is
noted in the various walks of literature and science.
He relaxes his mind by strolling amid the groves of
the Academy, or reposing in the bower of the muses."
A delegation of the chiefs of the Sac and Fox tribes
of Indians was in Washington on business in February. They were a wild, ferocious-looking set, in dirty
blankets, their faces daubed with red paint and their
heads ornamented with feathers.
C" I sat the other day by a group of ladies in black;
one about forty, with a very intelligent and animated
countenance. On her right sat a much older woman.
The first listened to Colonel Bell, who was then speaking, with intense interest, appearing absorbed in the
subject he was discussing. Her companion threw out
an observation now and then in the Irish accent, which
evinced real knowledge of the world, and of men and
things in Ireland. Curran, Grattan, Phillips, Fitzgerald, Lady Morgan, &c., were sketched with accuracy
and fluency.




DISTINGUISHED LADIES-.         1 95
"' Who are those ladies?' I said to my fair young
friends, the Misses,-, who had just come in.
"'One is the wife: of the ex-Speaker of the House,
a lady of fine sense and feeling; the other is the
widow of the celebrated Wolfe Tone, the mother of
young Wolfe Tone,, and the mother-in-law of the
daughter of Sampson.  She is a remarkable woman,
and her career in life has also been remarkable.
She is now Mrs. Wilson, and, I'believe, again a
widow; a lone woman in this, wide world, and in a
foreign land.'
"' And what fine-looking woman is that in a colored
dress to our left, so dignified and conversational?'
"' That is the wife of the late candidate for the
Presidency, Mrs. H. L. White, a lady of good understanding, agreeable manners, and no little ambition.' "
There were two parties- every night in February,
1837., Washington presented a continual scene of
speaking by day, and- dancing and feasting by night.
Among the distinguished guests, was Power the actor,
who, after despatching his theatrical duties, was wont
to relax himself among the fashionables, abandoning
the Irish gentleman on the stage for the Irish gentleman in society. The whole world assembled on the
8th February to witness the ceremony of counting
the electoral votes for President and Vice-President.
It took place at noon in the Hall of Representatives.
It had been officially announced, through the Globe
that the President's big cheese was to be distributed
among those who pleased to visit him on the birthday of Washington. The Senate adjourned at an
early hour, the volunteer companies turned out and




196        JACKSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
the inhabitants of the three cities of the District, of
all ranks and conditions, repaired to the Palace. The
Presidential mansion was crammed.
2'he cheese was certainly enormous, and about twice
the weight of the mammoth one sent to Jefferson.
It had been surrounded by a belt, on which had been
painted the words applied to Jackson by Branch,
"The Greatest and the Best," with his own'sentiment, c" The Union must be preserved."
"'By the powers," said a raw Irishman, taking an
enormous mouthful of cheese, "it may be the great.
est, but it's far from bein' the best."
A lady asked what animal it was intended to represent on the cloth that covered the cheese. Some one
said, the cow from the milk of which it was made.
Another cried, "The cow! The donor, in his letter
to the President, said it was made by two hundred
and sixty cows."
The old President stood shaking hands with, and
receiving the salutations of his numerous visitors as
long as he could stand. The east room, splendidly
furnished, and looking like a fairy palace, was crowded,
and the company was emphatically mixed, a curious
mixture of democracy and aristocracy. At one-moment one was knocked against the wall by a sturdy
hack-driver and his fat spouse, and at the next pressed
by a lovely creature, under the protection of a foreign
minister; at one moment the scent of eau-de-cologne
and otto of roses was deliciously inhaled, and the next
the smell of garlic and odor of brimstone assailed the
olfactories. "At a levee a few years ago," said one,
c"Sir Charles Vaughan rolled up to the Palace in his




INCONVENIENCE OF DEMIOCRACY.       197
carriage, in his court dress, to pay his respects to the
President; but he saw such a crowd of all sorts and
descriptions pushing into the Executive Mansion, that
he cried out roughly to his coachman to drive home,'This is too   democratic for me!'"
"Bless his old heart!" cried a portly woman,
wedged into one corner of the splendid room, and
dressed in all the colors of the rainbow, "How sorry
I shall be when he goes away. My darter Eberline has
been to visit the Gineral several timies, and shook
hands with him twice. She says how he spoke to
her so kind and affectionate, she could almost have
hugged the dear old man. And did you not observe
how he smiled when he shook hands with me! I
vow he's the most agreeablest old man I ever seen.
But don't you think there's a wast deal of wulgarity
here to-day?"
CI n this administration," said her escort,'these
mixtures are allowed. For my part, I always likes
genteel society, and abominates what is vulgar."
"'And so does I," said the lady with a toss of her
head.
At the door was a splendid barouche, which had
been presented to General Jackson. It was made entirely of the wood- of the old frigate Constitution.
Captain Isaac Phillips, a worthy and respectable
officer of the navy, had been peremptorily dismissed
by the elder Adams, for permitting a British frigate
to muster on deck the crew of an American sloop-ofwar under his command, for the purpose of impressing British subjects. He applied to General Jackson
to appoint him to office in consideration of his perse



198        JACKSON'S ADMIINISTRATION.
cution by Adams; and- said the gentleman now holding the appointment of navy agent at Baltimore had
held it many years. "That proves him  worthy of
confidence," replied the General.  Caxptain Phillips
then remarked that the incumbent was rich and did
not require the office. "Then " replied the hero, " he
has no inducement to be dishonest;" the General all
the while calmly smoking his pipe, his feet resting
on the mantel-piece. The Captain resolved to make
a last desperate effort. "I have an agede wife," he
pleaded, " we are fast declining into the valley of the
shadow of death in wretched poverty; this little
office would give us the comforts of life, and speed
our downward path to the tomb." The General
dropped his feet to the floor, laid his pipe on the table, called for pen and ink, wrote a note and handed'it to Captain Phillips.
" Here is an order:for your appointment; take it
to the Secretary of the Navy. If this little office is
not necessary to the comfort of its possessor, and will
make yourself and your aged wife happy, you shall
have it." Captain Phillips took the note to Governor
Branch, but was informed itcame too late-; that Mr.
James Bealty, of Baltimore, had& been recommended
by political friends of the administration; that his
nomination was before the Senate and" that- he would
not recall it. Phillips' returned to the President and
told him the result. "He won't recall it?" exclaimed
Jackson. "Then, by the, I will!: Mr. Secretary,
fill up a nomination for Captain Isaac Phillips; carry
it to the Senate Chamber, recall the nomination of
James Bealty, and substitute the one for Isaac Phil



JACKSON'S OPINION OF IMIPPrOVEMIENTS.  199
lips." In a few days the Captain received his commission. Presenting himself to Governor Branch for
instructions, he expressed his gratitude. "'You owe
me nothing," said the Governor, "I did all in my
power to prevent it. General Jackson rules in all
and over all."
The distinguished statesman Louis McLane, who
was minister to England, then Secretary of the Treasury, then Secretary of State, winning the confidence
and respect of all who associated with him, eminent
in ability, and most competent to judge of the ability
of others, averred that General Jackson was a greater
man than any member of his Cabinet. He withered
and annihilated every man who dared oppose his iron
will. He buried in the tomb of the Capulets that
leviathan, the Bank of the United States;; that distinguished financier, that truly honest and upright
man, Nicholas Biddle, dying of a broken heart. Grief
had slain him: his poverty vindicating his- integrity.
General Jackson's prejudices were indomitable.
On one occasion his influence was solicited in favor
of the Baltimore and Ohio railway, and it was urged
that benefits would accrue to the rich' valley of the
Mississippi by the facility-of intercourse with the Atlantic border. "Sir," he answered, "it is a rebellion
against Providence. If it had been designed that the
produce of the western world should find its market
on the shores of the Atlantic, the great rivers of the
West would have flowed in that: direction."
The social brilliancy of General Jackson's administration was generally acknowledged; and will long be
remembered. In no city in the Union could there be
13




200        JACKSON'S ADMIINISTRA.TiON.
found a more polished and refined society than in
Washington at this period. Foreigners of high rank,
citizens of wealth, men of the most distinguished intellect and learning, with ladies the most lovely and refined, were assembled there during the congressional
terms. The constant presence and association of such
persons naturally gave a tone and polish to the manners of the place not to be found to. the same -extent
in other cities. Some thought the manners of the gentlemen artificial and affected, allowing the women,
however, natural tact, with much grace and elegance.
Fashionable society in the capital, then as now,
was accessible to all who pleased to enter it. There
was no aristocracy of wealth to form an exclusive
circle or present a barrier to the less affluent. Many
families depended upon government for the means of
subsistence, and the only difference among them arose
from tile difference of income which they received,
which, of course, governed their manner of living and
regulated their expenditures. Example had its effect
in Washington, as it has in all other communities.
The President opened his drawing-room periodically
for the reception of those who pleased to visit him on
those occasions. The heads of departments and bureaus, foreign ministers, &c., gave dinner and evening
parties during the session to members of Congress,
strangers of distinction, &c., on a visit to the capital;
and this was followed up to an almost ruinous extent
by the subordinate officers of government, clerks and
-citizens, who thought they must become a part of the
fashionable circle. To the soirees of the secretaries
and others, invitations were sent out usually about




SOCIAL MANNERS.             201
eight or nine days in advance, and, of course, no one
was expected to go who was not an invited guest.
An invitation, however, was easily procured by a
stranger who had any standing in society, by leaving
his card before the soiree was given. The hotel books
were regularly examined, and invitations were sent
to the stranger or foreigner of note newly arrived.
Lions were as eagerly sought after in Washington as
in the circles in London. A constant -requisition was
made upon members of Congress; they were the life
of all companies, and a necessary ingredient in the
composition of fashionable parties.  Some of them,
who were at first exceedingly rough, contrived to
throw off the awkwardness and rusticity of former
habits, and mingled freely in society. As a man's
standing and consequence were tested by the figure
he made in fashionable circles, every one was anxious
to be initiated, and to play his part as conspicuously as
possible. These efforts to be classed with the fashionables were attended with expenses which the circumstances of but few could justify. A carriage, servants
in livery, fine furniture, splendid apparel-especially
among the women, who were as passionately fond of
dress as in other cities-good wine, and all the other
" pride, pomp Sand circumstance of glorious" fashion
had to be procured. The man who attended parties
was expected to give them, and in striving to keep
up appearances insolvency was too often the result.
Some, however, were very sagacious in maintaining
their rank. They lived sparingly, and except when
they gave parties or were invited to them, observed
the strictest economy.




202:      JACKSON S ADMINISTRATION.
A writer of the day described the bachelor Secretary of the Navy as: "not in the. least bellicose, very
close in his: private matters, and not inclined to be
profuse in his public expenditures. In this particular
he bears a strong resemblance to another Secretary
of the Navy, who filled the office some twenty years
ago. He boarded with a lady who kept a boardinghouse near Georgetown, and always dined with a
small: flask: of wine containing about half a pint,
from which he was wont to help himself, but asked
no one else at the table to join. him. When he had
finished. his dinner he carried off his precious casket,
to be reproduced at the succeeding repast. The present Secretary also boards; is in the habit of going to
all the parties to which he is invited, but seems to
have conscientious scruples about giving any himself.
His pantaloons, like his speeches, are always too brief,
and his coat, like his reports, too long. When a member of the Senate, he never failed to advocate the
duty on iron, having iron works himself; and he was
said to be the most ironical speaker in that body. He
is tall, and the wags say he is very lofty and elevated
in, his notions."
Mrs. Edward Livingston- was so preeminent in
Washington society, that no apology is made for the
introduction of an. authentic sketch of her life; no
memoir of her having ever before been published.
Mrs. Edward Livingston was born in the Island of
St. Domingo in the year 1782. She was descended
from a French family of which several members have
distinguished themselves in literature and politics.
Her grandfather Pierre Valentin D'Avezac de Castera




MEMOIR OF MRS. EDWARD LIVINGSTON.  203
was of the ancient family of the Seigneurs of Avezacin Neboussau, but of the younger branch, that of the
Seigneurs of Castera, settled in Bigorre. Pierre Valentin himself was a younger son. His father, who
reserved for this son's only patrimony, some ecclesiastical benefices which he possessed in the Diocese of
Tarbes, destined him for the Church, and sent him to
Paris to study at the Sorbonne. When prepared to
take orders, young D'Avezac showed inclinations little
in conformity with his father's intentions; and to
escape the ecclesiastical profession, he suddenly embarked for Martinique in the year 1748, and thence
went to St. Domingo. His talents and perseverance
soon gave him prominence among the inhabitants of
the Island. He held successively military and legal
offices of importance under the colonial government,
and having finally become a planter, showed in the cultivation of his lands, ability that gave him great influence. He proposed the construction of a canal for the
purpose of fertilizing the beautiful valley of the Fond,
and, in the absence of a professional engineer, undertook himself to have it made by his own slaves. He
had to contend with difficulties and embarrassments
to accomplish his purpose, but these were settled to
his honor by the intervention of the Comte d'Argout,
Lieutenant Governor, and the award in judgment of
the Prince de Rohan, Governor-General of the Island.
D'Avezac had married, in the year 1752, Marie
Thdrese de Linois, a near relative of the vice-admiral
of that name. By her he had five children, of whom
the second son was the father of Mrs. Livingston.
Jean Pierre Valentin Joseph D'Avezac de Castera




204        JACKSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
was born in 1756 at St. Domingo. He was one of
the Deputies elected in 1790, by the great planters
in St. Domingo, to form the famous Assemblee Generale of St. Marc, that undertook to resist the spreading of the revolutionary spirit of France into the
colonies. The Deputies, eighty-five in number, embarked on board the "Leopard " for Paris, to encounter the storm. On arriving at Brest they were received with enthusiasm, but when they reached Paris,
the national assembly treated them as aristocrats and
took sides with their adversaries. On their return to
St. Domingo they continued their opposition to the
revolutionary ideas, in the colonial assembly. But
the insurrections of the mulattoes received encouragement from the party then dominant in France, and the
planters were obliged to seal with their blood the
cause they had espoused. D'Avezac had two sons
killed in expeditions in which they commanded detachments sent against the insurgents. His younger
brother and his brother-in-law were made prisoners
and shot at Leogane by the mulatto general, Rigaud.
He himself, exhausted by vain efforts in the cause of
order against anarchy, sought refuge in exile with
his family. By his marriage with Marie Rose Valentine Genevieve Tallary de Maragon, he had remaining but four children. The eldest son, Auguste, was
afterwards well known as United States Charg6 d'Affaires to the Hague for many years. Louise D'Avezac,
(later Mrs. Edward Livingston) was the eldest daughter. Her mind developed at a very early age. Her
father, in surrounding himself with all the refinements
of European luxury unusual in the Island, had col



SELF-TEACHING BY THE CHILDREN.    205
lected a large library to which the child was allowed
access. She learned to read, no one could tell how.
Mrs. Livingston in speaking of this in after life used
to relate that one day while her mother was at her
toilet undergoing the elaborate process of having her
hair dressed and powdered according to the fashion
then prevailing in France, she had taken up a glittering pomatuin jar and read off aloud the label on
it. Her father, who at that moment entered the
room, was amazed at finding the little girl had spared
them the trouble of teaching her to read. From that
time books were her passion. Fortunately her instincts led her to all that was elevated in literature,
for no one guided her in any way. Plutarch's heroes
became the objects of her girlish enthusiasm. The
classics, ancient and modern, in prose and in verse,were
greedily devoured, and these treasures, appropriated
by her memory, were retained through life to extreme
old age, for she never forgot what she had acquired
in that plantation library. Her brother Auguste,
nearly her own age, shared in these tastes. Whenever one of the two was consigned for some youthful
misconduct, to the dark closet reserved for juvenile
delinquents in all countries, the other would crouch
at the door before the chattie're, (an opening which it
was the custom to leave under doors for the egress
of cats), with a Virgil, a Tasso, a Racine or some other
work equally above their years, and reading aloud the
magic pages, charm away the solitude of the captive
within. The sports of these children partook of the
same spirit. They would enact whole scenes improvised from the Iliad, the Eneid or the Jerusalem De



206        JACKSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
livered, and the little girl was by turns Helen, Dido
or Clorinda. For a long time she was thezonly daughter of her parents.  She was consequently taught
with her brothers; and shared in the instructions of
their tutor until the young men were sent off to college in France, according to the custom of the Island.
She was then left to finish her education by herself.
It was in her early home also, that she first learned
to love the works of nature. Her father's estate was
beautifully situated, and tropical vegetation gave a
peculiar character to the scene. The house was very
spacious; her father had lavished his great wealth
upon it and adorned it with European taste and elegance. Terraces bordered with orange trees, surrounded the dwelling, from which the eye wandered
down the long rows of cocoa-nut trees which formed
the avenue of entrance to the place.
At the age of thirteen Louise married Monsieur
Moreau de Lassy, a French gentleman of fortune.
He took her to Jamaica to reside, having there large
estates. But this union did not last long. At eighteen she was a widow, and returned to St. Domingo to
live with her parents. The revolutions on the Island
soon followed, and her father left it to prepare a refuge
for his family in Norfolk, Virginia. But immediately
after his arrival there he fell ill and died of yellow
fever, broken-hearted at the ruin of the once flourishing colony. Her mother clinging to the hope of better days, believed she could best serve the interests
of the family by remaining as long as she could onthe plantation.  It was thought best that Madame
Moreau, then so young and beautiful, should not run




HIDING IN THE WOODS.          207
the risk of remaining too long amidst the dangers
-that surrounded her. She therefore accompanied her
aged grandmother who had determined upon imnmediate emigration. The party was completed by an
aunt with two unmarried daughters, and Madaime.
Moreau's little sister, a child six years of age. Those
who knew Mrs. Livingston will remember hearing her
narrate this episode of her early history in her own
peculiarly graphic style. She would describe the
English frigate hovering round the Island, offering
means of escape. A time had been appointed to receive the fugitives on board. They found their way
to the shore by night through a dense forest. There
they lay concealed, waiting with breathless anxiety
for the boat which was to come to their rescue. At
day-break they heard footsteps approaching, crunching the dry twigs. In their despair they drew closer
and closer together, to receive the death blow. A
dog now came bounding upon them in an ecstasy of
joy.  Then the branches which surrounded them
were cautiously parted, and they heard the wellknown voice of a faithful slave, saying in the French
idiom of the St. Domingo negroes: "c Mistress, are you
there?  Don't be afraid, it is I, bringing you some
food. The boat will not be here until night."  They
waited throughout that long weary day until it came
to a close, and the shadows of evening deepened
upon the Island. A small boat was then seen coming
for them from the frigate. It reached the shore;
they all got in, and the sailors began to row off again
making direct for the ship. Just then a party of
negroes came in sight. Maddened at the escape of




208        JACKSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
their prey, they fired a volley and killed the old
grandmother, who was holding in her arms Madame
Moreau's little sister.* The child, though bespattered
with blood, was providentially uninjured, but the faithful slave who had brought them food and aided in
their escape was not so fortunate. A shot from the
shore stretched him out lifeless beside his aged mistress.  Reaching at last the French frigate, the diminished party was taken safely to Jamaica. Thence
they embarked in a schooner, ready to sail, as it happened, for New Orleans. The schooner was so small
and crowded that the passengers lay in heaps all
over the deck. It was impossible to move after once
getting on board. In addition to this, a contagious
disease broke out, of which several persons on board
died. The voyage was prolonged by adverse winds
and storms. At last, however, they reached New
Orleans, where many exiles from St. Domingo had
already preceded them, thankful for the preservation of life, almost all they had left them. New Orleans was at this period in a state of transition. It
had passed not long before from the hands of Spain
into those of France, and had just been purchased
by the United States. The population was motley,
tinged with the various national characteristics of
successive possessors. Spaniards, French, Americans
and the native Creoles, combined to make up this
community of easy and primitive manners. The old
settlers were not yet reconciled to the last change
of rulers. Prejudices almost amounting to superstition made them regret the past and dislike innova* Afterwards married to Judge Carleton of the Supreme Court of Louisiana.




SETTLING IN NEW ORLEANS.         209
tions of every sort. Every accident was attributed
to the mismanagement of the Americans, and this
idea was carried so far that there is a tradition of a
public ball given about this time and interrupted by
a sudden earthquake. This roused the ire of a gallant
old Creole gentleman present, who was heard to proclaim, in a stentorian voice, "Ce n'6tait pas du temps
des Espagnols et des FranGais que le plaisir des dames
Stait ainsi trouble!"
The D'Avezac family met with the kindest reception on all sides, and their courage under such
reverses of fortune, excited  general admiration.
Madame Moreau established herself with her aunt,
her two young cousins and her little sister, in a small
and humble dwelling. They were fortunate in the
devotion of several slaves who followed them in their
flight, enabling them to avoid the necessity for such
domestic drudgery as their habits and education little
fitted them for. In the beginning, the sale of some
jewels of value, which they had succeeded in bringing away with them, enabled them to live. But the
time soon came when the younger members of the
family were obliged by their handiwork to provide for
the daily maintenance of their parents. Mrs. Livingston in after years spoke of this with great pleasure.
Never, she would say, had we been happier or lighterhearted. After the mornings passed over her sewing, she would make her simple toilet, and radiant in
youth and spirits, would pass the evenings gayly with
her cousins in the midst of such social enjoyment as
could be found around them. The proverbially aristocratic beauty of the women of St. Domingo was




210       JACKSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
exemplified by the remarkable appearance of the
young emigrdes. Their presence imparted a new
lustre to the simple old ball-room, where the society
of new Orleans assembled weekly, without ostentation or extravagance, for amusement and dancing.
These balls, though called public, were scarcely so in
reality. The whole company knew each other, and
met by common consent, admitting none but those
of their own circle. Orange flower syrup and eau
sucre were the sole refreshments.  Carriages were
unknown in those primitive days. Even.to go to the
balls, ladies walked in their satin shoes, preceded by
a slave carrying a lantern, which was necessary on
account of the dark streets. When it rained or the
weather was bad, the ball could not take place. This
was announced by a crier, to the sound of the drum,
a signal understood by all that the ball was postponed
until the next fair evening.
It was at one of these primitive entertainments
that Madame Moreau first met Mr. Edward Livingston. He had recently come from New York to establish himself in the new domain secured to the United
States chiefly through the ability of his brother, Chancellor Livingston. Mr. Livingston was a widower.
He had left his two children in New York with their
relations. Although he was twenty years older than
Madame Moreau, she. soon appreciated his noble intellect, and above all things the goodness so characteristic of this distinguished man. On the other hand
he was not slow to discover that beauty and grace
were not the only gifts which nature had lavished on
the young widow. They were married on the 3d of




MARRIAGE WITH MR. LIVINGSTON.        211
June, 1805. One of Madame- Moreau's- young cousins
was at the same time united to the son of one of the
most esteemed citizens of New Orleans. The double
wedding took, place at midnight in the chapel of the
Ursuline Convent, (an old building still extant in New
Orleans.) Madame Moreaii having recently lost her
venerable aunt, the ceremony was private and. but
few were present to witness it. But the place, the
hour and the circumstances, made it most impressive.
The chapel dimly lighted with wax tapers, and sweet
with the perfume of June: flowers; the nuns behind
their grating, unseen, yet revealing their presence by
their chants; the brides, both beautiful and one surpassingly so; no one who saw her could ever forget
her. And above all, the remembrance of the vicissitudes they had experienced, and the haven of rest
they had found, all combined to inspire the eloquence
of the priest officiating. L'Abbe de Espinasse's address on the: occasion left no one unmoved.*
When the family of 6migr6s left the chapel it was
not to return to the modest home where they had
all lived and labored together. From  that time the
little household was broken up. Mrs. Livingston's
mother, who-had some. time previously come to New
Orleans, now accompanied her to her new home, taking
with her also her younger daughter. The husband
of the young cousin likewise took his bride and her
sister to his house. The exiles had found a country
and their destiny was fixed.  The country of her
* Thirty years afterwards, when Mr. Livingston was United States' Minister
at Paris, he received a letter from this gifted ecclesiastic, then promoted to a
bishopric in one of the French provinces.




212        JACKSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
adoption soon became also that of Mrs. Livingston's
affections. She did not like even to remember that
she had ever had another. The English language
was acquired by her with wonderful rapidity. Although she always retained a foreign accent, her fluency and elegance of diction were very remarkable.
She had the gift of eloquence, in English as well as
in her native tongue. She soon made herself mistress
of the new literature which opened before her, and
her conversation, choice in its expressions but never
pedantic, gave evidence of her familiarity with the
best English authors. Her husband guided her himself in this new field of knowledge. She soon became interested in all his pursuits, whether literary,
professional or personal. Such was his opinion of her
judgment and good taste, that he was never satisfied
with any composition which had not received her approval. Mrs. Livingston laughingly compared herself to Moliere's old woman upon whom he tried the
effect of his dramatic compositions, But she was far
from playing the part of a mere listener. Her criticisms, freely offered, were almost always accepted.
When Mr. Livingston had been engaged in any suit
of importance, involving property or life, he was
always met on his return from the courts at the street
door, (even when detained until the middle of the
night,) by his anxious wife, flying to learn the results
of a trial, the merits of which had been previously
discussed with her. Her interest in his cases was intense. When the cause was a criminal one, and Mr.
Livingston had been unable to save the life of the
client he believed innocent, Mrs. Livingston would




SOCIETY IN NEW ORLEANS.          213
be days recovering from her disappointment. She
had imbibed her husband's views on the inviolability
of human life, and would weep bitterly over the fate
of the unfortunate being who was doomed. But Mr.
Livingston, proverbially successful in those criminal
cases which called forth all his sympathies and talents,
generally returned home triumphant. Mrs. Livingston used to say never did her heart swell with such
grateful pride as on these occasions of rejoicing to both.
New Orleans now became the home of several
of her relations, attracted there a.fter her marriage.
Her brother Auguste D'Avezac, and her uncle Jules
D'Avezac, the latter called by his talents to preside
over the first college New Orleans boasted of, were
inmates of her home. The domestic circle was a charming one. Mr. Livingston had been the providence
of the family. Often in summer, literary readings
would enliven the breakfast table, set out ins the broad
piazza shaded by orange and fig-trees.  There M.
Jules D'Avezac, whose genius for poetry was no ordinary one, would bring a canto of his translation of
Marmion into French verse.  Mr. Livingston, the
better to judge of its merits, would take the original.
This translation of Martmion was afterwards sent by
the author to Sir Walter Scott, who was much pleased
with the muse that repeated his songs in another
hemisphere. The president of the college also found
time to employ his pen on more serious labors, Mr.
Livingston having selected him as the most competent
person to translate into French the Penal Code, to
which Mr. Livingston owes his European celebrity.
But to return to the breakfast table from which we




214        JACKSON S ADMINIISTRATION.
have wandered. Auguste D'Avezac's brilliant conversational powers are still remembered by all who
knew him. Anecdote after anecdote- would be told
by him with peculiar wit and humor. Other literary
friends would drop in, and the circle widen. Mrs.
Livingston shone the presiding genius of her table,
ever considerate of others, and possessing in an eminent degree the gift of drawing out the talents of her
guests, and making them appear to the best advantage. The conversations which sprung up spontaneously in such an atmosphere, were instructive without
pedantry, witty without malice, gay and refined. In
the evening the balcony, (the southern reception-room
in warm weather,) was the resort of every stranger of
distinction who visited New Orleans. Scarcely any
Frenchmen arrived there without bringing letters
from La- Fayette to his friend Mr. Livingston. The
Lefevre Desnouettes, the Lallemands, the La- Kanals
and a host of others, enjoyed the easy and refined
hospitality of the Chartres Street house.  The distinction of manner and brilliant powers of its mistress
carried them back in imagination to their own Parisian: salons.
About this time war with England was, declared.
The story of General Jackson's first dinner in New
Orleans: is worth recording.  He arrived unexpectedly. Mrs. Livingston had for that day invited a party
of fashionable ladies to a grand dinner, and she was:
somewhat annoyed at the contretemps when Mr. Livingston announced to her that he had met the General and asked him to join their party.  With the
ideas prevailing in what was still, in manners, a French




JACKSON'S FIRST DINNER IN NEW ORLEANS. 215
province, an American General from the far West
seemed a poor acquisition to the entertainment. Mrs.
Livingston thought it necessary to prepare her friends
for what they had to expect. Great therefore was the
surprise when General Jackson entered the room.
Innate dignity, chivalric courtesy, perfect self-possession, marked him as one whom nature had fashioned
into the gentleman. Taking in all this with a glance,
it was with renewed pride in her adopted country and
its generous institutions, that Mrs. Livingston took
the General's arm to be led in to dinner.
A few days after this, the inhabitants of New Orleans were listening to the sound of battle raging
close at hand. From Mr. Livingston's position and
the friendship existing between himself and General
Jackson, his house was the place where all flocked to
hear the latest news. Another circumstance caused
it also to be considered a place of refuge among the
ladies. After the battle of the 23d of December,
while escorting a party of wounded prisoners who
were being conveyed to the hospital, Mr. Livingston
observed among them a young officer whose appearance interested him. He obtained permission from
General Jackson to take him home, where he was
left during his illness to the care of Mrs. Livingston.
Major Graves was insensible when brought to the
house. He was placed in the best room, and every
kindness and attention were lavished on him. He
used to say that he never could forget his sensations
of amazement and gratitude when on recovering his
senses, he found himself in this comparative elysium,
with beautiful women surrounding him and watching
14




216        JACKSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
over him. For all in the house had eagerly joined
Mrs. Livingston in doing what they could for the sick
stranger. Other prisoners had now been brought into
the city. Some conspiracy, fancied or real, caused
General Jackson to issue an order that all such persons should be sent back at once to the camp hospital.
Major Graves was still in too critical a condition to
be moved without risk. Mrs. Livingston went herself to General Jackson. She asked permission to
retain him, pleading that it was the only return she
would desire for the services of her family. Her husband, step-son, two brothers and a future brother-inlaw were all there engaged in the defense of their
country and personally devoted to the General. Her
eloquence prevailed, and she kept her prisoner, the
only one allowed to remain in the city. The roof
that sheltered him was now supposed to be invulnerable. When the noise of the cannon gave notice
that fighting was going on, women and children
flocked to Mrs. Livingston's for safety. Major Graves,
who had become much attached to the family, would
at such times, listen to the sounds with anxiety, advising Mrs. Livingston to leave the city at once should
it be taken, and never to remain in the power of any
conquering army. He could promise to die for them,
he said, but not to protect them; his presence under
those circumstances would be of no avail. There was
*however no necessity for protection; the victory was
ours. Many years after this, in the latter part of her
life, when Mrs. Livingston was a great invalid, confined to her bed in Philadelphia, a card was brought
o her. It was that of Major Graves. Passing through




MISS CORA LIVINGSTON.          217
the United States, he had heard where Mrs. Livingston was and had called. The memory of her former kindness had never been effaced: from his mind.
Shortly after the war, New Orleans was visited by
the yellow fever. During these epidemics, Mrs. Livingston formed part of a society of ladies who went about
nursing the helpless victims of this terrible disease.
She took pleasure in these offices of charity, for
which she was fitted by a natural aptitude to take
care of the sick. With her it was a labor of love.
When still young, Mrs. Livingston was fearful of falling into a weakness common among women, of concealing her age. She therefore gave a dinner to which
she invited many friends and acquaintances. When
all were assembled, she requested them to drink her
health, adding: " To-day I am thirty; if I should be
tempted to forget it, you must remind me of it."
She had but one child, upon whom she lavished extraordinary maternal devotion, hardly ever suffering
her to be out of her sight. Her daughter had scarcely
reached girlhood, when Mrs. Livingston assumed the
simplest matronly attire. Ever afterwards she seemed
rather displeased than flattered when allusions were
made before her, to her own still remarkable personal
appearance. All self was merged in her daughter.
This lovely girl was a celebrated belle in Washington.
In 1822 Mr. Livingston left New Orleans to enter
political life as member of Congress from Louisiana.
I-e afterwards exchanged his seat in the House for
one in the Senate. This was in turn relinquished for
the office of Secretary of State, which he resigned in
1833 to go to France as Minister. During these ten




218        JACKSON's ADMINISTRATION.
years, Mrs. Livingston spent all her winters in Washington. When she first went there Mr. Monroe was
President. Mrs. Monroe was lady-like, gentle and
dignified in manner. It was difficult to imagine that
anything could disturb the placid serenity of her
countenance. Discriminatingly courteous, she seemed
born to adorn the high position she occupied. Around
her were grouped Mrs. Adams, the gifted wife of the
then Secretary of State, whose features sparkled with
intelligence; Mrs. Richard Rush, polished and refined, a model of native elegance; Mrs. Hays, the
daughter of Mr. Monroe, who at Madame Campan's
in Paris, had become intimate with Hortense Beauharnais, after whom she named her beautiful daughter.* There were also many others of note.
After the death of Commodore Decatur, Mrs. Decatur had retired to Kalorama, her country-place, in
the vicinity of Washington. There she received, at
her select evenings, all the most agreeable as well
as prominent persons in Washington.  When Mrs.
Adams became mistress of the White House, her
literary tastes and range of thought were bonds that
drew Mrs. Livingston and herself together, notwithstanding the different politics of their husbands.
Washington society at that period could boast of
many remarkable women. Among others, Mrs. Van
Renneslaer, the wife of the Patroon, as he was still
called, was distinguished for her matronly beauty,
cultivated mind and dignified manners. Mrs. Stevenson, the wife of the Speaker, did not require beauty
to charm her listeners.
*Afterwards married to Mr. Lloyd Rogers of Maryland.




A QUEEN OF SOCIETY.            219
General Jackson's accession to the Presidential
honors made Mrs. Livingston still more prominent.
The friendship that existed between Mrs. Livingston
and the President, as well as her being the wife of
the Secretary of State, gave her a position she was
well calculated to fill.  Mr. Livingston left to her
the entire direction of the household, confident of
those powers which infused taste and elegance into
every arrangement. She had a special gift in giving entertainments of every description. Her manner of doing the honors was particularly fascinating.
Even- political animosity was subdued into politeness, by her tact and kindness.  Mrs. Livingston
became very intimate with the ladies of the diplomatic corps, effectually aiding her husband in his
cordial relations with the European representatives.
Her house was the nucleus as it were of foreign
society in Washington. The duty of doing the honors
of the White House having devolved on General
Jackson's young niece Mrs. Donelson, she was assisted and guided by Mrs. Livingston. Mrs. Donelson was unaffected and gentle, with an agreeable and
lady-like appearance.
In those days, as in New Orleans, Mr. Livingston
discussed all the serious affairs which came before
him with his wife. In one of his letters, he speaks
of the high value he placed upon her judgment on
every occasion. When he accepted the place of
Minister to France, he left all the arrangements for
departure to her; his own time thus reserved for the
affairs of the country. His reception in Paris was a
source of great satisfaction to his wife. A French



220        JACKSON'S ADMIINISTRATION.
woman herself, she had never before seen France.
HI[er mind was fully prepared for the intellectual and
social feast before her. Nevertheless she remained
faithful in her devotion to her adopted country. She
did not even like to explain how she came to speak
the language so purely, and when complimented about
it, would simply say that in the United States all women of education spoke French. The dignity of the
country she represented was above all things dear to
her, and she never permitted a word detrimental to it,
in her presence. The Prussian Ambassador in Paris
one day spoke of Washington as a village, and turning
to Mrs. Livingston asked her what was its  population.
To which she answered courteously but with a smile:'<a peu pres celle de Potsdam." On another occasion
there was some difficulty about certain rights claimed
by foreign ministers for the wives of the secretaries
of legation. M. de St. Maurice, whose duty it was to
settle these points of etiquette, expressed surprise
that Mrs. Livingston, coming from a republic, should
attach any importance to such things. To which she
answered: "nous devons y mettre l'importance que
vous y attachez vous meme." She not only gained
her point with M. de St. Maurice, but the additional
consideration due to one who knew her rights and
enforced them, great or small, never for a moment
neglecting what was -due to her country. Mrs. Livingston was appreciated at the court of Louis Philippe
by the most distinguished men of the day, such as
Guizot, Mignet and Villemain, who were all confreres of Mr. Livingston at the French Institute. M.
de Marbois was an old friend of his, whom he had




v IN I








MRS. LIVINGSTON IN PARIS.       223.known in the United States. He was so aged and
-infirm, that to join the circle in Mrs. Livingston's salon, he would be carried there by his valet de pied,
who would place him in an arm-chair for the evening.
Once seated, he would delight every one by conversation full of interest, information and benevolence.
Chateaubriand was also frequently there, but he too
was old and broken. The Duc de Broglie was then
Minister of Foreign Affairs. Mrs. Livingston's intercourse with Madame de Broglie was more than official. They saw each other often, and always met on
Sunday at the little Protestant chapel in the Rue
Taitbout. Here the most celebrated ministers of
the Reformed Church of Geneva preached. Reserved
seats were not known in this simple place of worship,
and the daughter of Madame de Stael sat on a straw
chair,' which she found occupied by some one else if
she arrived too late.
Mrs. Livingston was on a most agreeable footing
with the royal family. The Queen and Madame Adelaide liked to receive her without ceremony in their
circle of intimates, and:she greatly admired the dignified character and goodness of the Queen. It was of
Queen Marie Amelie that General La Fayette said:
"Quand a la reine, c'est une aristocrate."  The imnpress of high birth and breeding marked her unmistakably. She never forgot her rank, but that rank
was never made oppressive to others.
While Mr. Livingston was minister, his warm and
constant friend from childhood, General La Fayette,
died.  Livingston. was not present at his obsequies,
being at the time, absent in Holland with his wife.




224        JACKSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
The impression she produced there delighted her
brother Auguste D'Avezac, then the United States
Charge d'Affaires at the Hague. The brother and
sister met, and perhaps recollected the strange fate
which had brought them from their readings by the
Chattiere in St. Domingo, to fulfilling destinies they
had little dreamed of, in their days of childhood!
The mission to France was terminated by events
on which it is useless to dwell here. On Mr. Livingston's return to the United States he retired to Montgomery Place on the Hudson. This country-seat he
had inherited from his sister Mrs. Montgomery, the
widow of General Richard Montgomery, who fell at
Quebec. IHe loved the place dearly. It was not many
miles from Clermont, where he was born. Here
he had habitually spent his summers, after winters of
toil in New Orleans or Washington.  Here too he
proposed to pass the remainder of his life; surrounded
by a host of kindred scattered along the banks of the
river. He had now renounced public life and wished
to give his remaining years to literary pursuits, in the
midst of the family circle so dear to him. But Providence willed it otherwise. He passed but one summer
in his country home after his return from Europe. A
sudden and violent illness terminated his career of
usefulness on the 23d of May, 1835.
From that time Mrs. Livingston returned to the
world no more. She resided for half the year at
Montgomery Place, which was left to her by her
husband. Her winters were passed with her daughter in Philadelphia and afterwards in New York. Her
health, always delicate, had begun to fail while she




MRS. LIVINGSTON IN AGE.        225
was in France, and she now became a confirmed invalid. Her passionfor books contributed greatly to
while away the long hours of her sick-room. Again
and again she returned to the classics which she had
loved almost from infancy. She constantly read history with delight, devouring with the eagerness of
youth all new publications worthy of her notice. The
scope of her mind was manifest from the variety and
character of the books that surrounded her. As she
advanced in years, her appearance was singularly
-striking. Notwithstanding continued sufferings, the
hand of time was not laid heavily on her, and she
retained to an uncommon degree, traces of that beauty
which in her youth, had been so celebrated. Her
dress was deep black, with a high standing collar and
close widow's cap. Her hair, with scarcely a white
thread visible, was parted over a soft feminine brow,
still fair and smooth. Her eyes were undimmed by
age, and her noble countenance reflected her thoughts
and beamed with intellect, dignity and kindly feeling.
" Like a light within a vase the spirit shone through
the outer temple."
For twenty-five years Mrs. Livingston's life was one
of constant suffering, which she bore with Christian
patience and submission. She was, even in the midst
of pain, the least selfish of human beings, always occupied in doing something for others, most considerate not only towards her friends and equals, but with
her dependents and inferiors in station. The memory of her kind acts is still fresh among the poor who
lived in her neighborhood. The close of her life was
as quiet and peaceful as the beginning had been




226        JACKSON S ADMINISTRATION.
stormy and eventful. Years glided by without landmarks. Her enjoyment of nature was a great boon
to her. When no longer able to walk she was wheeled
about her grounds and gardens in an invalid's chair,
enjoying every breath of mountain air, every view,
every flower, with a zest given to few in the fullness
of health and spirits. For a quarter of a century, during her long widowhood, to the close of her life, Mrs.
Livingston was a member of the Methodist Church.
She had been drawn to it by the simplicity and fervor
of its mode of worship. She died at Montgomery
Place on the 24th of October,. 1860, at the advanced
age of seventy-eight years.
Another lady whose social influence was abiding,
was the wife of Hon. Levi Woodbury of New Hampshire. Her father was the Hon. Asa Clapp of Portland, Maine; her mother was a descendant of the
ancient family of De Quincey. Carefully educated,
with fine natural parts, Miss Clapp came into society
with more than ordinary 4clat. Her uncommon personal charms, united to polished manners, grace and
kindliness, attracted every one. When yet a schoolgirl, she was called on, in the absence of her mother
from home, to preside at the reception of President
Monroe and suite at her father's mansion, and won
encomiums for her good taste and graceful deportment. After their marriage, Judge and Mrs. Woodbury settled in that delightful old town, Portsmouth,
for two centuries the capital of the Province, and
subsequently the sovereign State of New Hampshire;
and retaining more of that high tone, and social elevation which clings naturally around an old capital,




METROPOLITAN SOCIETY.          227
than is often found on this continent. In the autumn
succeeding his marriage, Judge Woodbury was elected
Governor of the State, and entered on a long career
of political life. The graceful ease with which his
young wife presided at the executive mansion, threw
a charm over the usual stiffness of official intercourse.
When his term had expired, Governor Woodbury was
elected Senator in Congress; and a large part of his
time was thenceforward necessarily spent in Washington. Mrs. Woodbury accompanied him, and entered metropolitan society. History lingers on those
days: the standard of statesmanship was high; the
old school polish still existed. The Senate and the
House held a body of brilliant men, whose acquirements and wit set off their solid merit; and who exercised on the public mind a potent influence, not surpassed by any succeeding generation of public men.
The Corps Diplomatique also formed a bright ornament of that society, and with the leading members
of the Executive, the Judiciary, Army, and Navy, and
a few distinguished unofficial families, made up in
those days, a charming social circle, not too large for
acquaintance and friendship, the tone of which was
unusually high. It was the rare charm of Washington society that its male element was composed of so
many distinguished men, who combined rare intellectual powers with wide-spread observation. The
ladies of the families represented the culture and
beauty of all sections of our country.
It was then the usage for members of Congress
who were agreeable to each other, to form themselves
and families into "messes," having a table in the




228        JACKSON S ADMINISTRATION.
boarding-house, or hotel where they lived. in this
way friendships were cemented or formed, and many
of the messes acquired a special reputation from the
talents and polish of the associates. Often has Mrs.
Woodbury related casual anecdotes, or boninots, of
some of the messes to which she and her husband
belonged in Washington at that time. And it seemed
like another age, to hear the brilliant Verplanck, the
great conversationist Tazewell, the metaphysical Calhoun, the eccentric Randolph, and his no less distinguished rival Burgess, sparkle and flash as freshly as
if they were of to-day. It was in those times that
the great Jackson party formed itself in Congress,
which for over thirty years held the affections of the
people of the United States, despite the eloquence
and popularity of Clay, the sagacity and ponderous
power of Webster, and their many able friends.
"Fort Jackson" by which this, perhaps the most
brilliant of the "messes," was known, derived its
name from its political predilections, and was especially celebrated for witticisms. On the breaking up
of President Jackson's first Cabinet, Mr. Woodbury
was invited to a seat, as Secretary of the Navy, and
removed to Washington; continuing through General Jackson's, and Mr. Van Buren's Presidential
terms in the Cabinet, but after one or two years, as
Secretary of the Treasury.
Questions of etiquette arise as necessarily in a Republican Administration, as in a court; and usages become established. The ladies of General Jackson's
second Cabinet were noted for their refinement and
taste, as well as for the harmony that prevailed




STATE DINNERS AND PARTIES.       229
amongst them; and this rendered their efforts to
give social distinction to their receptions eminently
successful. The question of precedence at State dinners, between the cabinet and foreign ministers, was
started by the French minister, and after much discussion it was decided by the President, that the
precedence should be given to his cabinet. This rule
was adhered to during his term. The Count Serrurier and his wife were so annoyed at the decision that
they declined invitations. The dinners at the White
House during General Jackson's time, were marked
by the growing preference for continental usages over
the stiff English ceremonial previously in vogue.
While in Mr. Adams' administration the guests departed after coffee, now they lingered after leaving
the table, terminating the dinner with a soir6e. At
the "Drawing-rooms" it had been customary to have
supper tables, and the entrance was permitted to all;
but the growing population and the vast crowds who
flocked to these occasions rendered the custom insupportable; and towards the last of his administration
the President was obliged to give up the habit of
offering refreshments. It has never been resumed.
Many remember the surging crowd which rushed at,
and stripped the salvers in the corridors, long before
they reached the salons. General Jackson frequently
made informal visits to the family of Secretary Woodbury, and showed the kindliness of his heart by the
pleasure he took in chatting with the children; winning their affection as truly as he had the devotion
and respect of their parents.  Mrs. Woodbury sustained her social duties with unyielding patience. It




230       JACKSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
is easy to say, she was popular, but it is not enough;
her house was delightful for its social reunions. The
private receptions for friends were most agreeable,
and no events were ever permitted to interfere with
them. In those unpretending weekly soirees the fascination of her manners and the charm of her conversation were most conspicuous and appreciated.
They were not political, and the guests were not confined to those in public life; artists and men of merit
always found there a kindly welcome. One of the
journals of that time, says: "If, as has been said,
some are born to command, Mrs. Woodbury seems
born to please. Portland may justly feel pride in the
recollection that she is a native of that city." Another writer, speaking of those gathered at the Secretary's: "The foreign legations were there too, with
their embroidered coats, and I could not but feel
proud as an American, when glittering in their stars
and badges, they approached the fair hostess, that so
splendid a specimen of American beauty, amiability,
and politeness should welcome and receive them in
this land of Republicanism."
At the close of Mr. Van Buren's administration,
Mr. Woodbury again entered; the Senate. In 1844,
Mr. and Mrs. Woodbury and family, were present on
board the man-of-war Princeton, when the accidental
bursting of the twelve inch "'big gun" hurled Secretaries Upshur and Gilmer, Commodore Kennon, Mr.
Maxy, and several other gentlemen into eternity;
besides wounding many, including Senator Benton.
Fortunately, Mrs. Woodbury and daughters, although
invited to take a position near the gun as it was about




MRS. WOODBURY'S FAMILY..        231
to be fired, in order to witness the ricochet of the shot
on the water, declined doing so and escaped unhurt.
In 1845, her husband was appointed to the bench
of the Supreme Court of the United States, which
seat he held until his death in 1851; at that time
he was a, prominent candidate for the Presidency.
During this long association with Washington society,
and amid the rancor arising from party strife, Mrs.
Woodbu.ry never indulged in its bitterness; the arrows of her wit were never dipped in gall. She possessed a cultivated taste for modern classics, and was
especially familiar with the writings of the most gifted
women of France, England and America. She had
also that eloquence du billet, formerly so much admired, and her letters to her friends were of that
pointed and piquant style, of which Madame de Sevign6 is considered the founder.. The loss of her
husband was a serious blow; but Mrs. Woodbury was
left surrounded with affectionate children, for whom
the duties of life were still to be performed. She
had four daughters, whose gifted minds and personal
advantages made them eminently successful in society.
The eldest child, Charles, is a lawyer, lately United
States Attorney for Massachusetts.  Her daughter
Mary married the Hon. Montgomery Blair, Postmaster General under President Lincoln. Frances married Archibald H. Lowery of New York; Virginia the
Hon. G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary of the Navy, and
subsequently the Special Envoy to the Emperor of
Russia, with the congratulatory resolutions of Congress
on his escape from assassination. The youngest, much
celebrated as a belle, Miss Ellen, is still unmarried.




232        JACKSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
Mrs. Woodbury was never ambitious of social distinction; neither her cultivated Castes, nor the attractions of court life abroad, were able to tempt her
across the ocean. It was because of her objections,
that her husband refused the mission to Spain, tendered him in 1831, by General Jackson; and again
in 1845, the mission to England offered him by President Polk. A true American matron, the love of
home duties was strongest in her heart, and it required
but little exercise of her powers of abnegation to refuse what many fair ladies would have deemed a
golden opportunity to breathe the atmosphere of
courts, and gaze on royalty at advantage. Wearied
with formal society, she embraced the opportunity,
as her children were settled in life, to withdraw herself more and more into the domestic circle; and to
sympathize with, and see the great world of society
through them. Visiting them in the winter, and having them cluster around her in the summer, at her
own lovely home, her life glides harmoniously along;
her eyes are bright, her form is erect, and her step as
elastic as in youth. She takes exercise on foot and
in the saddle. The ready repartee springs as gaily
as of yore to her lips, and the young love to draw
around one who has neither lost her power to please,
nor her quiet enjoyment of social intercourse. Influenced by a sense of duty in the daily walk of life,
love and respect gather around her from neighbors,
family, friends and Christ's poor. She was ever free
from'envy; possessing intelligence and benevolence.
In the symmetry of her character, no marked contrasts strike the observer. It would be difficult to




IMRS. LEVI WOODBURY.           233
analyze the qualities to which Mrs. Woodbury owed
her remarkable success and popularity. Esteemed as
she was and is, for a thousand virtues and accomplishments, by a wide circle of friends and acquaintances,
and all her acquaintances must be her friends noted
for the union of personal charms with solid judgment,
perfect taste, and the graceful ease acquired by constant association with the best society, there is something more that constitutes the subtle attraction for
which she is distinguished. It is partly her invariable calmness and the moderation of her nature, inspiring confidence; partly her generous consideration
at all times for others. She is a lovely study for all
who appreciate the highest and gentlest qualities of
womanhood. But though we cannot say in what the
spell consists, it will be well for all women to emulate
the virtues of such a character.
15q




IX.
VAN 1BUREN'S ADMINISTRATION: 
The new President's wifeless Condition a Difficulty to meeting the Claims
of Society —Mrs. General Macomb's splendid Party-Ladies conspicuous for Fashion and Beauty-The Rival Generals-The Inauguration, and Ball-Noted Men of the Time —" Connecticut Niles "Indian Delegation-Calhoun and Preston —Mrs. Madison's Return to
Washington —The Diplomatic Corps-Scene in the Gallery-Exciting Scene in the House-New Year's Receptions —Mrs. Adams and
Mrs. Madison —Hugh Legare-The Jam in the Galleries-Mrs. Kendall's Party-Mrs. Paulding-Mrs. General Scott-Mrs. De Witt
Clinton-Mrs. Gales-Mrs. Seton-Mrs. Dickens-Mrs. MacombThe Cilley Duel-Scene at Mrs. Towson's Party-Calhoun, Clay and
Webster in Competition-Mrs. Schaumburg-The Prince de Joinville
-Brilliant Party at M. Bodisco's-Scene at a Presidential LeveeVespucci at a Cabinet Dinner-The White House on Fire-A " Locofoco Jam " —Madam Calderon's Musical Party-Mr. Preston-The
Birthnight Ball, and Catastrophe of the Chandelier-Grand Closing
Fete-Clay and Van Buren-Marriage of M. de Bodisco-The Chinese Mandarin at the Spanish Minister's Party.
MARTIN VAN BUREN learned his principles from
Jefferson. He was a student at law in the office of
William P. Van Ness, who was the friend and second
of Aaron Burr in his duel with Hamilton. Burr was
then at the height of his career,-was Vice-President,
lived in great style, and dispensed a lavish hospitality.
He was struck with the talents, energy and diligence
of the handsome country youth, who imbibed some
of his political tactics. Some sanguine spirits hoped




MRS. MACOMB'S PARTY.           23,5
that Mr. Van Buren's accession to the purple might
give a new polish aud a higher tone to society. He
had a taste for the graceful things of life. A letter
writer said: "The court of Mr. Van Buren will be
the most elegant that ever was got together in
Washington. Mr. Van Buren himself will not marry,
but his son will soon lead to the altar the accomplished and beautiful daughter of the Patroon of
Albany. Arrangements are making among several
distinguished ladies to create an era in the fashionable soirees of Washington. The star of New York is
in the ascendant; the wit, the beauty, the grace, the
genius of New York ladies are about to change the
social face of the capital."
It seemed desirable to close the season with as
much brilliancy as possible. The wife of the MajorGeneral of the armies of the United States-Mrs.
Macomb-gave her second party about the middle of
the month. The General was described as "equally
graceful in the ball-room and the field. He is neither
a laggard in love nor a dastard in war, but prefers the
sound of a lady's lute to the music of the drum. He
has also been smitten with literary ambition, and has
produced a tragico-comico-melodramatic piece,'Pontiac,' which was brought out on the boards of the
Washington theater. Mrs. Macomb is a leader in fashionable society, but attends church regularly. She is
the daughter of a clergyman who formerly lectured
to a congregation in Georgetown. Under the droppings of his sanctuary she grew up, and retains her
early impressions. She gives splendid parties with a
military air about them, and goes to soirees, but not




236      VAN BUREN S ADMINISTRATION.
to balls, having some religious scruples on that head.
Among the married ladies Mrs. Bass was the most
magnificently attired. She wore in her turban an
aigrette, said to have cost ten thousand dollars. The
other elderly ladies seemed to have a passion for birds
of paradise. As two of them moved their heads to
greet each other, the tails of the birds came in contact, and bobbed about like a cork in the water on
the line of an angler. Amon.g the oddities was a
widow from Annapolis, literally covered with tinsel,
which She called jewelry, and loaded with finery. A
young girl from Delaware wore a head-gear of red
ribbons, with a scarlet silk bodice, a muslin fly which
came down to her knees, trimmed with scarlet, and
under it a frock of the same material and trimming!
Mrs. Gales-the exclusive, wore a scarlet velvet, and
moved a goddess. One pretty young girl was noticed
who was said to be the future daughter-in-law of the
new President. Mr. Van Buren was said to be devoted to a lady from Baltimore, a widow of considerable beauty. But the lady protested that there was
no truth in the rumor."
Colonel Benton was at the time in Washington and
seldom went into society unaccompanied by his wife.
Mr. Van Buren wore his honors meekly, often riding
on horseback along the avenue with his son, taking
off his hat and bowing gracefully to all he met.
Mr. Adams moved on the footwalk alone, without
looking at any one. The expiring throe of gayety
for the season was given in a musical and tableaux
party. The performers were amateurs, and the violin, flute and clarionet, with the piano, accompanied




THE INAUGURATION BALL.         237
the voices. One of the company remarked that it
had been talked of among the fashionables, to adopt
the Italian custom, and entertain a party at the new
theater. General Scott was observed as a majestic
and noble-looking man. It was remarked that the
two generals did not appear to assimilate. One lady
said,' "The one dislikes what most men pursue,Gaines; the other, though a descendant of a Caledonian, hates the Scott."
A lady who came to attend the splendid ball to be
given on the night of the inauguration was Mrs.
Bayard, the grand-daughter of Charles Carroll, of
Carrollton, and the wife of a Senator. She had an
intelligent and lovely countenance, and bore herself
well. A noted worshiper of Bacchus, and a brawler,
had a piece of hickory made into a cane and waited
upon President Van Buren to present it. The new
President told the militia major that he never used a
cane.  "It will be of more service to yourself, major,"
added he, with an icy smile.
On the evening before the inauguration, which
closed the administration of Jackson, the ladies were
permitted to come on the floor of the House with
their escorts, and the assemblage was magnificent.
Many of the members gave up their seats to them,
and instead of grave representatives, one might see
the ornamental head-gear of the ladies; plumes
waving between the lights, and bonnets of various
colors. Groups were seen here and there, some
seated on sofas, some in the recesses of the windows, some standing behind the scenes, and others
promenading, without paying the least attention to




238      VAN BUREN S ADMINISTRATION.
the important affairs of the nation, and only listening
when Peyton or Wise rose to address the House.
The day of the inauguration, 4th of March, 1837,
was bright and clear, but very cold. At an early
hour Pennsylvania avenue was crowded with a moving mass of all colors, sizes, ranks and sexes, bending
their way to the Capitol. Mass after mass rolled onward till the space in front of the grand staircase of
the eastern portico was filled. This staircase and the
floor of the portico, were crowded with women;
group pouring in upon group, shivering in the cool
and frosty air. The oath of office was administered
by Chief Justice Taney.
The inauguration ball was designed to surpass in
splendor all that had preceded it. The managers
were gentlemen of high official rank and young
men of fashion.  The indication of their authority
was a piece of white ribbon, decorating the lapel
of their coats.  The saloon was very large and was
prepared with some expense, but was illuminated
by sperm candles instead of lamps, and not so brilliantly as it might have been. The ball was somewhat aristocratic, as the price of admission was
ten dollars; yet it was considered crowded.  The
President and Vice-President made their appearance about ten, and were led up the room to an
elevated platform by two of the managers. They
there received the congratulations of the company.
All the heads of departments and the chief officers
of the government, the most respectable citizens,
distinguished strangers, and the resident diplomatic
corps in the costumes of their nations, were present.




"C CONNECTICUT NILES."        239
The military and naval officers wore their respective
uniforms.
The first sermon was preached in the Capitol in
September, 1837, by Rev. T. Fisk of Charleston, South
Carolina. In that month Congress was in session,
and the galleries were again thronged with auditors
of both sexes. Mr. Calhoun was active with his plan
for regulating the finances of the government, and
eloquent in the exposition of his views. A new
orator-John Sargeant of Philadelphia, came into
notice. He was a small man, with not a prepossessing face or appearance; but every eye turned on him
when he rose. Presently members began leaving
their seats, and moving towards the spot where he
stood. All was silence, so that one might have heard
a pin drop. The voice of the speaker was weak and
husky; his manner was cool and collected.
Among noted men of that time Colonel Bell was
not inferior in intellect to any in the country. " His
conception is rapid, his judgment sound, and his
memory tenacious. He decides promptly and generally correctly. He always does justice to the subject he is handling, and brings to it a mind invigorated by reflection. His temperament is melancholy,
and he appears absent and abstracted when not engaged in debate or conversation. His feelings are
generous and elevated, and his heart is noble and
manly."
Mr. Niles-Connecticut Niles-was thus described:
"He is about five feet eight, leans forward, is illshaped, has red hair that stands up in front and
curls all over his head; he frowns incessantly and




240       VAN BUREN'S ADMINISTRATION.
has a sort of barrel cough peculiarly disagreeable to
the hearer. His face is protuberant and wrinkled.
Around his neck he girts a white handkerchief tied
behind, which gives an expressive projection to his
chin. On his rounded shoulders hangs a black coat
which fits him badly; his vest is of black satin, and
his black breeches are of cloth or cassimere. He
crosses his hands behind his back when in an argument; and often slaps his thigh with his right hand
as if to enforce what he says. He stands directly in
front of his desk, and turns his head frequently to
the right and left, so as to let his eyes fall upon Senator Benton on one side and Senator Rives on the
other. He must belong to the temperance society;
for he drank, during his speech, six tumblers of water, doubtless to keep cool his rising eloquence and
prevent it from overflowing the Senate."
In September the delegation of Sioux Indians were
invited to meet the Secretary of War, Joel R. Poinsett,
and a council was held in Dr. Laurie's church, instead
of the war office, or the President's house. The natives attended in their costume of a blanket daubed
with red paint, with red leggins and all sorts of head
dresses. They listened to an address from Secretary
Poinsett.
In October it was written: "Mr. Preston outdid himself to-day. Even they who knew him best were astonished. Calhoun's speech was a mere school-boy's
essay to that of his colleague. Nobody had dreamed
that Mr. Preston was a political economist; i at his dis-,course to-day has undeceived even his friends. He
marched up to the subject with a fearlessness that




PRESTON AND CALHOUN.           241
would have made your heart leap within you had you
heard him. He took up the subjects of currency, of
money, of exchange, of manufactures, of buying and
selling, of credit in all its forms, of banking, and handled them with all the ease that a master mechanic
would his tools. The perfect command he has over
language enables him to do what others would not
dare to attempt..... The breach between Calhoun
and Preston is all the talk here. On Saturday the
latter made a long and eloquent speech in opposition
to his colleague. Duff has opened his battery upon
Preston, but Duff is in the last stage of decrepitude,
and flutters like an expiring cock. Calhoun will carry
but few with him, and it is believed his career is at an
end. Black Hawk and his son are the only lions in the
city at present. The people are rushing in crowds to
see them. There is a member of the lower house from
Alabama, worth a trip to Washington to get a sight
of. He is about five feet ten inches high. His legs
resemble inverted old-fashioned churns.  I should
guess his weight to be not less than five hundred
pounds. They say he is a man of some sense; he
certainly carries great weight of character with him.
This elephantine legislator would not disgrace old
Jack Falstaff. He is the great point of attraction.
The ladies can't imagine how the poor fellow can live."
In October of this year, Mrs. Madison returned
to live in Washington, after an absence of twentythree years. A visit to her was thus described:-" I
took her to be between sixty and seventy years of
age. The same smile played upon her features and
the same look of benevolence and good nature




242      VAN BUREN'S ADMINISTRATION.
beamed in her countenance. She had lost the stately
and Minerva-like motion which once distinguished
her in the house of the President, where she moved
with the grace and dignity of a queen; but her manner of receiving was gracious and kind, and her
deportment was quiet and collected. She received
all visitors with the same attention and friendly
greeting.  She remarked that a new  generation
seemed to have sprung up.'What a difference,'
she said,'twenty years makes in the face of society!
Here are young men and women who were not born
when I was here last; whose names are familiar to
me, but whose faces are unknown. I seem to have
suddenly awaked after a dream of twenty years to
find myself surrounded by strangers.''Ah, madam,'
remarked one of the ladies,'the city is no longer
what it was when you were the mistress of the President's house! Your successors have been sickly,
tame, spiritless and indifferent. The mansion you
made so charming and attractive, is now almost inaccessible. The present incumbent has no female relative to preside, and seems to be so much absorbed in
party politics, that he will scarcely open the house to
those who wish to see it. The very tone of society
has been affected by these changes. At one time,
such was the bitterness of party feeling, that no visits
were interchanged between those belonging to the
administration and those in the opposition. Almost
all the oldest citizens are now excluded from office,
and brawlers, broken merchants, disbanded officers,
and idle young men have been put in their places.
Butthe society is beginning to improve, and the




OFFICIAL ENTERTAINMENTS.        243
fashionable of all parties mingle more harmoniously.
Foreigners now, as in your day, are all the go. A
poor attach4, a gambling minister, a beggarly German baron, or a nominal French count, is preferred
to the most substantial and accomplished citizen,
among the young women at this court."'
Mrs. Madison smiled at this picture, and spoke
with much feeling of the former condition and appearance of the city.
After Christmas, it was said: "The Attorney General, to avoid giving parties, has taken lodgings, and
quitted housekeeping. Secretary Dickerson is an old
bachelor, and has a good excuse. Secretary Forsythe
is too poor to afford the expense, and finds he can get
along as well without them. Secretary Woodbury is
waiting till after the holidays, when he will probably
entertain as usual. Of the foreign diplomatic corps I
know of none except M. Pontois, who is likely to
entertain this winter. Foxc is an old bachelor, who
dines at twelve o'clock at night, and breakfasts at
one the next day. He hates the sight of women, and
eschews their society. He is fond of mutton, but seldom invites Mouton to his table. He is a solitaire,
who, though he does not forget all, is'by all forgot.'
His few servants threaten to leave him, as they do
not like leading the life of an owl:-sleep all day
and work all night."
A scene in the gallery was reported by a witness:
"'Did you hear Menifee on this question?' asked
one.
"' Yes, what do you think of him!'
"'That he is a young man of fine talents; destined




244      VAN BUREN'S ADMINISTRATION.
to take a high stand in the House. Clay says he is
the first young man in the nation, and his speech today will give him a high reputation. Kentucky is
rich in talent. Clay and Crittenden in the Senate
are unequalled, and this young man will yet rival
them in the walks of eloquence.'
"'Have you heard Hoffman?''Yes; he is very
clever, and with a little industry would become a
very prominent member. He speaks well, and is
noble-hearted, courteous and fearless. Preston paid
him  a high compliment when he made his first
speech.'
"' Speaking of Preston, Calhoun seems to have left
him.'
"'Yes, and has destroyed himself. He has thrown
himself under a falling party, and will be crushed beneath it.'
"'His State will sustain him, I have no doubt, and
his opinions will be found to be correct.'
c' cNever. He is the victim of blasted ambition, and
will never rise again.'' "I moved towards another group of gentlemen and
ladies, who were speaking of Wise and Gholson.
"'Do you think there will be a duel?' enquired a
young Virginian.'I trust not,' replied an elderly
gentleman.'But I regret to see both parties apparently so desirous of pitting these two men against
each other.  They are both fiery and hot-headed.
The vitriolic blood of the South bubbles up in the
veins of each upon the least provocation, and they
seem unable to control their tempers.''Poor dear
soul!' sighed an elderly belle in the group,'it would




AN EXCITING SCENE.           245
be a monstrous pity to have Mr. Wise shot. He is such
a bold and independent man, and makes such interesting speeches.' An old Jackson lady remarked:'I amn sure he would be no great loss if Mr. Gholson
were to kill him; and I would rather hear him speak
than a thousand Wises. But what a noise that man
yonder is making. How shocking! to come here to
sleep!'
"'IWhy do they keep the gallery so dark!' asked a
black-eyed girl.'Because,' was the gallant reply,'the Speaker thinks the light from the radiant eyes
of the fair quite enough without artificial illumination."'
At the close of the year, Calhoun was still "the
leader of the Southern party in the House, and
wishes to be so of both Houses. But Wise, too, has
thrown himself in front on this great Southern question, and takes the lead from him in Virginia, for the
purpose of aiding Clay, whom Calhoun is maneuvering to defeat."  One among many scenes like the
following may be illustrative: "On the allusion of
Mr. Slade (a member from Vermont) to'the Alton
tragedy,' a simultaneous movement was made throughout the House. Legare attempted to get the floor,
but was resisted by his friends, who used all their
force to keep him down. Slade all the while was
declaiming against the slaveholder and the slaveholding States. Wise, who at least has the appearance of a madman, was so infuriated that his clenched
fist was making its way through every obstacle that
came within his reach. Imagine this picture! Slade
in the centre, inflaming the Southerners by his vio



246       VAN BUREN' S ADMINISTRATION.
lence of speech; on his right some twenty or thirty,
and here and there a group arguing'What should
be done?'  On the other side of the House, greater
excitement is manifested. Wise is appealing to Bell' to assist in allaying the excitement'-himself so excited that his countenance has undergone a thorough
change- his eyes darting fire, his nostrils distended,
the muscles of his face so strongly marked, that it
were not impossible to take hold of them; his hands
clenched and his whole frame convulsed from top to
toe. Some few members are now hanging around
the marble pillars, with long and serious faces. The
messenger boys are in front of the Speaker's desk,
holding each other's arms in breathless silence. The
Speaker, standing up, crying out for' Order! order!
order!' his face as pale as a sheet. Strangers are
pressing into the galleries, and all there partake the
excitement of the scene below.'Who is that speaking in the midst of the group on the left?' inquired
a stranger.."' It is the eloquent Legar6, trying to get the eye
of the Speaker.' A blow is heard on the desk. It is
from Wise, who, no longer able to control his feelings,
is making a call for'the Southern Delegation to leave
the hall.'
"'LAgreed! agreed!' from  fifty voices.'Where
shall we go?''To the committee room for the District of Columbia.' A general rush followed this annunciation; but the tempest within was still raging
with increased violence. Adams rose, and begged his
friend Mr. Slade not to be alarmed-he had seen such
storms before. The Speaker's hammer was playing




THE SOUTH AND NEW ENGLAND.           247
away on the desk, but to no effect; Slade still going
on.
"Robertson —' One remark, Mr. Speaker.'
"Slade —' I claim the floor.  I ask leave to read a
paper I hold in my hand.'
"The Chair —'The gentleman will take his seat.'
Here a hundred were on the floor, addressing the
chair at one time.
"'I Is not the gentleman from Vermont declared out
of order?'
"IChalir-' He is. Order-order! Take your seat.'
"Slade — I propose to read this paper.'
"Turney-' I object to the gentleman proceeding
at all.'
"The Chair —' Sir, take your seat.'
"Slade-' Not till I have read this paper.'
"Chair —' The rule is imperative. Sit down.'
"Slade, s'till on his feet-' Mr. Speaker'
"Chair-' Sit down.'
"' I move an adjournment,' from twenty.
"'Slade —' I demand the yeas and nays upon that
motion.'
" Adams to Slade-'Go on-go on!'
"' Cries of' order,' and' question. To adjourn 106,
against 63. Notwithstanding the house was adjourned,
none of the members left it. An announcement was
made that the Southern Delegation was organized,
and requested the friends of the Union to meet them
in the committee room."
Parties were given by the different factions. Mrs.
Woodbury was eminently fitted to adorn social reunions. She was handsome, graceful, courteous and




248      VAN BUREN'S - ADMINISTRATION.
fascinating, attentive and hospitable, and dressed with
great taste. She had a lovely and accomplished
daughter then not old enough to be brought out.
At this time there was a considerable accession of
foreign beauty. The President held a levee on New
Years' day, said to be the finest first of January ever
known in Washington. Mr. Van Buren, with his
usual smile, stood in the center, supported on the
right by the Marshal of the District, and on the left
by a gentleman well known in fashionable society.
The visitors after paying their respects, retired into
the east room. There Henry Clay was seen escorting a tall, majestic woman, Mrs. Bell, the wife of the
ex-Speaker. Clay received the congratulations of all
who passed, in the easy, democratic style for which
he was remarkable. This room extended the whole
depth of the house north and south, opening on a
terrace running to the east, from which is presented
a beautiful view of the Potomac and the country on
either side. The foreign ministers were all in their
court dresses, and the military and naval officers in
their uniforms.  The dresses of the Russian and
French attaches were splendid.
A  gentleman complimented by the name, "Sir
Thomas Humbug," and "Old P. Q."-the impersonation of the Previous Question, —were conspicuous;
one crying out " Mornin', Sar i" continually, in a nasal
twang.  The Vice-President was planted near the
main entrance. A dark-eyed, yellow-faced man was
pointed out as connected with him by marriage; a
Senator, who always talked loudly and vociferously
from being accustomed to bawl to his team in the




NEW YEAR S RECEPTIONS.          249
backwoods. Major General Scott looked splendidly.
HIe towered above the rest of the company like a
giant among pigmies. His Florida laurels were not,
hlowever, green on his brow; the Seminoles not allowing themselves to be conquered. Jessup did lit.
tle better. There was some complaint of the want
of refreshments, as it had been usual to have them
in the administration of Mr. Madison and Mr. Adams.
Mrs. Adams and Mrs. Madison received company
on the same day. Mrs. Madison moved like a queen
in her crowded rooms, dressed in black, with a turban
she had been accustomed to wear at the White House.
She seemed much pleased to welcome her friends,
among whom were Clay, Bell, Preston, and several
whig Senators. The stream of visitors was continually ebbing and flowing.  Mrs. Madison, though
some seventy years of age, did not look more than
fifty. At Mrs. Adams' house, too, the company consisted of the elite of the city. It was singular to be
able to visit in one day a President, an ex-President,
and the widow of an ex-President.
It was said there was but little musical taste in the
capital at that period. The theatre was well patronized, and there was no lack of excellent actors.
Mr. Legar6 had the character of being a good
speaker, and when he was to address the House on
the Mississippi election, the galleries were crowded by
auditors. To give an idea of the jam, a single incident may be mentioned. A shabby-genteel dandy,
with a rusty cloak fastened round his neck by a gilt
clasp, had been pinioned against the wall, and made
vain efforts to escape. The wave of the crowd pushed
16




250      VAN BUREN' S ADMINISTRATION.
him one way, while his cloak, pressed by those behind
him, held him fast. One arm was thrown forward,
and the other, in the hand of which he held a shabby
old cap, was fastened to his body by the outside pressure. In this position he remained, in imminent
danger of suffocation from the stricture around his
throat. "Gintlemen!" exclaimed an Irishman, "if
ye don't want to sthrangle the man inthirely, let him'ave the tail of his cloak: for by the powers the balls
are shootin' from his head, and he'll have no tongue
to his mouth in a second." The man made a sort of
gurgle in his throat to confirm Paddy's assertion.
When he was released by unclasping his cloak, he
made a desperate plunge and disappeared.
Mrs. Kendall's party was numerously attended, being the first soiree ever given by the head of the General Post Office Department. Parties, of course, it will
be understood, were always given in the name of the
lady. Mrs. Kendall was a simple woman, more inclined to be domestic than fashionable. She had a
daughter to introduce. Some of Mr. Kendall's political opponents said that an English attendant had been
engaged as master of ceremonies, and everything was
given into his management. The names of visitors
were demanded at the door, and called out by the
servant at the top of his voice. Someone remarking
that Mr. Kendall looked pale, an elderly belle said he
had never recovered his complexion since the defeat
of the Locofocos in New York; and thereupon she
darted her hand into a plate and grasped a handful of
gingernuts and macaronies. The escort of another
lady cut away with a spoon at a pyramid of cake




MRS. PAULDING-MRS. SCOTT.        251
which he took for one of ice-cream, and overthrew
the whole structure. A young lady cried out that he
must have taken it for an Indian.
Mrs. Madison was seen at the dinner and evening
parties, and was the observed of all observers. She
was at a dinner at the President's, where Mr. and MIs.
Webster were also present with their daughter; the
ladies superbly dressed. The banquet was in the Parisian style.
Mr. Van Buren made Mr. Paulding Secretary of
the'Navy.  His wife was the sister of Gouverneur
Kemble. The word "lady" hardly defined her; she
was a perfect gentlewoman. Scott called Mr. Paulding
"the most thorough gentleman in the United States."
He belonged to a distinguished English family on the
father's side, and was the nephew of Lady Gage. His
house was the favorite resort among all the secretaries. At the age of eighty, he still entertained visitors at his residence at Cold Spring, opposite West
Point; inviting the professors and distinguished strangers every Saturday to visit him and his superb gallery of paintings.
Justice has never been quite done to the splendid
qualities of Mrs. Winfield Scott. She was highly educated, and possessed remarkable powers of conversation.  Her witty sayings were often sarcastic and
always ready. When she heard it said of a diminutive man that he had not much mind, she added "He
has neither mind nor body." On one occasion she
remarked: "They call the General'Fuss and Feathers;' Mr.    is fuss without the feathers."  When
a young girl-a belle in Richmond-one evening at




252       VAN BUREN'S ADMINISTRATION.
a party, an old gentleman came up, laid his hand on
her neck, and said, smiling: "I-Iow do you feel, my
dear?"  She replied, quickly: " Ugh! I feel as if old
age were crawling over me."
Mrs. DeWitt Clinton was a noble woman, of masculine understanding and energies. For years she was
-a leader in New York society. She was in her autumnal prime and the meridian of her influence during Mr. Van Buren's administration. She was displeased at his political intrigues in regard to her husband, and at Saratoga in 1838, she refused to recognize him. During General Jackson's Presidency, when
he and Mir. Van Buren called on her upon one occasion,
she sent for the General to join her in another room,
and would not meet his companion. There was a
power about this lady, acknowledged by all who knew
her, and she had a hearty appreciation of humor.
One of the chief leaders of fashion was Mrs. Gales,
who was "c at home " every Friday evening. Her parties were well attended by members of Congress, residents and strangers. Her nieces, the Misses Walker,
were pretty and danced remarkably well. Her house
was rather small for brilliant display, but one always
met at her not overcrowded soir6es, distinguished foreigners and visitors to the capital. Her husband was
said to be one of the most generous and charitable of
men. Mrs. Seton, his sister, was a very superior woman, given to hospitality, and always employed in
doing good to her fellow creatures. She was instrumental in getting up many charitable institutions, and
society owed much to her philanthropic exertions.
She did not care for the vanities and frivolities of the




FAVORITE ORATORS.            253
world. Her charming daughters had similar tastes.
Mrs. Dickens was prominent in giving and attending
parties. Hers were usually crowded. Her daughters
were pretty, and she was hospitable and fond of company. One representative from New York, seen often
at her house, was Mr: Hoffmran, who had made a brilliant speech in the House. He was a great admirer
of beauty, and went to all the parties.
Whenever it was known that Webster, Clay, Preston or Calhoun was to speak, the galleries were
crowded; if less favored orators rose to address the
Senate, they were cleared in fifteen minutes. When
Henry Clay was to address the Senate on the SubTreasury bill, the lady spectators got on the floor,
and spread themselves on each side of the circle behind the bar. They. were forced to retire, to their
great vexation, pouting and throwing disdainful
glances on poor Haight and Weir, who were obliged
to order them away. Clay sustained himself with
great ability, speaking for nearly six hours.
In the latter part of February of this year, Washington was thrown into excitement by the fatal termination of a duel between Mr. Cilley, of Maine, and
Mr. Graves, of Kentucky, acting for Colonel Webb,
of New York. The duel grew out of the imbroglio
produced by the letters and acts of M. L. Davis, the
"Spy" correspondent of the Courier and Enquirer,
and the subsequent criminations and recriminations.
Mr. Cilley fell at the third fire.
A party given by the wife of General Towson was
very brilliant, the house being well calculated by its
size and arrangement for the reception of company.




254      VAN BUREN'S ADMINISTRATION.
Mrs. Towson was dressed in exquisite taste, and a
young lady stood at her side. The ball-room was up
stairs; and amidst the brilliant crowd might be seen
Mrs. General Macomb, and Mrs. Schaumburg of Philadelphia, said to be one of the best amateur singers
in the country. Mrs. Pleasants of Washington, radiant in beauty, stood leaning on the arm of her escort,
proud to have her under his charge. Her head-was
encircled by a magnificent coronet of pearls; her
dress was black velvet; and she looked like the goddess who punished the presumption of Acteon for
daring to gaze on her loveliness. The supper was
capital. A guest remarked: "I left the great intellectual giant of the Senate, Webster, forking pickled
oysters with as much gouit as he would read a law
case; and Speaker Polk, with his mouth so crammed
with chicken, celery and beef's tongue, that even the
offer of a foreign embassy could not loosen his jaws.
Wise was washing down his tongue with champagne,
and ex-Speaker Bell was meditating the demolition of
a plate of blanc-mnange."
The great national birthnight ball took place in
Carusi's saloon.  Among the distinguished guests
were Clay and Webster, who seemed to participate
feelingly in the hilarity of the fete. The Vice-President was also conspicuous, and all parties were mingled in the most agreeable harmony. The floor was
marked with the insignia of the different states, and
the pillars of the supper-room were decorated with
festoons and wreaths of artificial flowers. The President came in about ten with Mr. Clay, to the tune of
Hail Columbia.




FEELING AMONG FASHIONABLES.            255
On the evening of Cilley's burial, a musical party
was given by the wife of the Solicitor of the Treasury.  Many members attended it after returning
from the funeral of their friend and fellow-legislator.
Among the groups talking of the unhappy event, one
might hear a lady remark: "Poor man! how I pity
him! But don't you think Mrs. Schaumburg sings
divinely!"
"' Exquisitely!" the reply would be: "Dear me, how
shocking it was! and his poor wife!"
" Have you been introduced to Captain Marryatt?
What a strange creature!"
" Indeed I sympathize deeply with his family."
"It will be so sudden-so unexpected-"
"' What a fine voice Mrs. Schaumburg* has!"
"a Captain Marryatt don't seem inclined to be introduced to anybody!"
"I do feel for poor Mrs. Cilley.  Were you at the
House to-day?"
"Oh, yes, I attended the funeral, and heard the
chaplains pray and exhort, and saw all the ceremonies.
Is Captain Marryatt a married man?"
"Poor thing! how  afflicted she will be! These
musical soirees are very charming.  Nothing affects
me so much as music."
"This city don't appear very propitious to matrimony."
"No marriage has taken place among the fashiona* The Mrs. Schaumburg mentioned was the mother of Miss Emily Schaumburg, in later years celebrated in Philadelphia society for her admirable voice
and musical skill, and her powers as an amateur actress. A sketch of her is
given in "The Queens of American Society."




256       VAN BUREN'S ADMINISTRATION.
bles this winter but that of the Chevalier Tacon. It
is surprising, isn't it?"
"Very. Did you say poor Mrs. Cilley had three
little children? How melancholy!"
"Did you hear how Captain Marryatt cut that
dandy! Served him right!" etc.
Marryatt was looked on as a lion, and attended all
the parties, though objecting to be introduced to any
one.
On an early Thursday in March, the President
opened his drawing-rooms for the first time since his
accession.  M. Pontois, the French minister, gave a
party the night before.  The minister was a large
man and his secretary a small one; both wore eyeglasses, more, it was said, from affectation than necessity. M. Pontois was not so popular as some of his
predecessors. None of the ministers had their wives
with them. Fox was a solitaire and very eccentric;
lie kept himself aloof from the fashionable world,
and was studious and retiring. At this time Calhoun,
Clay and Webster were called " the three great competitors for the throne."  In the intellectual amphitheatre of the Senate, they showed their skill and
dexterity in couching the lance and wielding the battle-axe. The massive war mace was wielded by Webster with the force of a giant refreshed by the slumber
of ages. Nothing could resist the vigor and tremendous weight of his blows, and the enchanted castle
of the Sub-Treasury fell before his resistless energy.
The Speaker, Mr. Polk, gave a soiree at his lodgings,
on the same evening that Forrest ranted and thundered in Metamora to the delight of the fashionables.




A CONCERT- A LORD'S ARRIVAL.      257
Mrs. Forsythe, the wife of the S'ecretary, gave the
second of her parties. Mrs. Poinsett had given but
one, and Mrs. Woodbury had been prevented from
exercising her usual hospitality by the death of a
relative. *The crowd at Mrs. Forsythe's included the
belles and beaux of the three cities of the district.
M. Pontois invited Madame Caradori Allen to a
dinner, and had a number of guests whom he had invited to hear her sing. But the cantatrice had no
idea of being made to amuse the company, and therefore pleaded a bad cold as an excuse for refusing.
The singer gave a concert, which was well attended
notwithstanding the lack of musical taste. Some
thought the richly dressed Mrs. Schaumburg not inferior in voice to Caradori. The Major-General, Clay,
and many distinguished persons were in the background at the concert; the gentry in front affecting
to be connoisseurs, and crowded around the singer.
The arrival of Lord Gosford created quite a sensation. Though an Irishman, he was a lord; and invitations to dinner and supper awaited him on every
side. The " Geologists of the United States" waited
on him. That singular genius, Fox, was roused from
his den and made to revisit the glimpses of the sun.
The battle between the champion of NullificationCalhoun, and the champion of the Constitution-Webster, occupied universal attention. A member from
Pennsylvania, Mr. Petrikin, wore an old-fashioned pigtail or cue. Another member, making some remarks
on what he had said, observed: " The gentleman has
thrown out some insinuations that deserve notice, and
I will thank him for the cue." "I'll be hanged," said




258      VAN BUREN'S ADMINISTRATION.
the little old member, "if you or any other man shall
have it, I have nursed it till it has grown into a respectable tail, and no man shall curtail it."
In April, complaints were made of the dullness of
the metropolis; the President having opened his
house but twice during the winter. During the preceding administration, it was remembered that the
secretaries and other members of the cabinet showed
their hospitality by giving parties week after week;
the present members had shut themselves up in the
recesses of their mansions. "C The court of Martin the
First" was voted a shabby concern. It had devolved
on private individuals to sustain the social character
of the government, and show by their elegant hospitality that refinement and civilization existed in the
metropolis of the nation. But they seemed to have,wearied of leading the:fashionable world. All were
astonished at the prospect of two May balls, a party
at the house of M. Pontois, and a party given by
Mr. Fox.  The latter was an unexpected novelty;
the first given by the minister, and in honor of the
birthday of his Queen Victoria. At the French minister's party, a lady carried away the palm for grace
and dignity, who had sojourned at the splendid Court
of Austria.
The arrival of the steam  frigate Fulton created a
great sensation.  Mr. Van Buren and a portion of his
cabinet took a trip down the river on board of her,
returning in the evening.  A regatta was got up in
honor of her arrival; five boats to row a mile and back.
The crowd of spectators was immense. The evening
was concluded by a ball and collation given by the




PROSPECT OF A WEDDING.           259
officers. This was greatly enjoyed by the belles and
beaux, who danced to the music of the marine band.
The arrival of the Prince de Joinville with his suite,
opened the prospect of more fetes and parties. This
son of Louis Philippe was a strapping youth of eighteen, more desirous of displaying his equestrian skill
than of figuring as a lion. On his first ride, the morning after he came, he was thrown, but sustained little
injury, and afterwards made his appearance in the
Senate Chamber with the French minister. Next day
he went to Philadelphia.
The summer heats of this year were excessive, but
the,ardor of fashionable gayety continued.  Mrs.
Woodbury gave a soiree in July, and Mr. Kendall a
raspberry party at his residence on Jackson Hill.
After the adjournment of Congress the city began to
look deserted; the office-holders and fashionables flying off to the springs, to spend their money and kill
their time. Mr. Van Buren shut himself up in his
palace, and was seldom seen.
"Does the President mean to give any drawingrooms next season!" was asked in the following October.
"Oh, certainly," was the reply. "His son, the private secretary, is to be married in a few weeks, and
his wife will receive the company; a fact that has
produced a great deal of satisfaction. Mr. Van Buren,
too, is so elated at the success of the Locofocos, that
he is determined no longer to burrow in one of the
solitary nooks of the palace, but to be visible to all
his friends of both sexes frequently during the next
session."




260      VAN BUREN'S ADMINISTRATION.
The second session of the Twenty-fifth Congress
was opened early in December, 1839. A brilliant
party was announced to be given by M. de Bodisco, the
Russian minister, at his residence in Georgetown,
where he lived in great splendor. He was at this
time a bachelor, and it was his first fete. His reputation as a man of taste, and his familiarity with
fashionable life in Europe, rendered most persons curious to go. As they approached his residence through
the dark streets, the blaze of light resembled a conflagration. Servants at the door, in livery, took charge
of the hats and cloaks, and the names were announced,
first below by a servant, at the head of the staircase by
another, and at the entrance to the drawing-roorr by
a third. M. de Bodisco, magnificently dressed in the
costume of his court, received the company with ease
and courtesy. He was a fine-looking man, about fortytwo, with brilliant black eyes, dark, thick and curling
hair, and a face expressive of benevolence and good humor. His manners had a grace derived from constant
intercourse with the most polished courts of Europe.
This was his fourth embassy in different countries.
He spoke English and several modern languages.
Every room in the house, except one, was thrown
open, and brilliantly lighted with lamps and candelabras. Most of the splendid furniture was of Europe~an
make, and not a house in the country contained such
a variety of artificial ornaments and curiosities. The
china services were very rich, and the plate costly
and magnificent. One retired room was called'"Flirtation Gallery." All the foreign ministers and their
attaches were in their court dresses. The costume of




M. DE BODISCO'S PARTY.         261
the Austrian, a marshal, consisted of a coat of white
cloth, covered with orders, and pantaloons of scarlet,
richly trimmed. M. de Bodisco's dress was blue, covered with silver lace to a great depth, and ornamented
with precious stones. The buckles of his pumps were
set in brilliants. The French minister's dress was also
splendid and costly. Among the refreshments were
ices -of all kinds; iced chocolate, iced crab apple
juice, ice-creams, iced punch, lemonade, sangaree, &c.,
brought on silver waiters and eaten with gold spoons.
The music was delightful. The rooms were kept
warm  partly by Russian stoves. The supper was
served about one; a long apartment in the second
story being set apart to accommodate the ladies.
They were seated the whole length of the table,
which was covered with gold and mirror plateaus,
splendid candelabras, Grecian temples, castles, &c.,
made of candied sugar; fruits of all sorts in ornamental dishes; china ornaments, gold forks, &c. The gentlemen were excluded from this room, and the ladies
were waited on by the servants. The gentlemen's
supper-room was in the third story.  Among the
members-of whom there were few-were Mr. James
K. Polk and Mr. Cambreling. The card-room was
near, and in it the Secretary of State and the Secretary of the Navy were deeply engaged at whist.
The company retired between two and three. This
was said to be the most superb fete ever yet given in
the District. It was in honor of the birthday of the
Emperor Nicholas, and eight hundred guests were invited.
A party by the Austrian minister was looked for to




262      VAN BUREN'S ADMINISTRATION.
rival M. de Bodisco's. Poor Mr. Fox, with an income
of thirty thousand, managed only an occasional dinner,
very late at night; mutton boiled, roasted and fried.
People said the house smelt of sheep. Fox was called
the spectre minister, from the unnatural paleness of
his face, and the blackness of his bushy eyebrows.
Prentiss, the Mississippi orator, "is a small man,
about five feet six inches in height, lame in one of his
legs, which he rests on his cane when he walks. His
head is large and well cast, and his body well proportioned. He is said to be a native of Maine, and commenced life in poverty. He taught school in Mississippi when he first went out to that State, while quite
a lad; studied law afterwards and soon  became distinguished at the bar, where he not only acquired
fame but wealth. He appears to be about thirty
years of age. His countenance becomes lighted up
in speaking by the warmth and glow of his feelings.
He has all the elements of an orator; he is logical,
imaginative, sarcastic and humorous. His early reading seems to have been Scriptural, and from the Scriptures he brings most of his illustrations, which are
always happy. His judgment, memory and imagination seem to be equally prominent."
On New Year's day the President again opened his
house to visitors. Henry Clay also received in his
rooms at Borlanger's, a restaurateur on Pennsylvania
avenue. At twelve the President's palace was thrown
open, and the immense crowd poured in. Mr. Van
Buren stood in the reception-room, with gentlemen
on either side. A little behind him stood the youthful bride and bridegroom, Mr. and Mrs. Van Buren.




NEW YEAR'S CALLS.            263
She received the ladies. She was said to possess great
wealth, and to belong to an ultra whig family.
A lady asked: "Why does M. de Bodisco carry
that beautiful silver key on the back of his coat?"
"To denote that'Love laughs at locksmiths,' or
that he keeps the key to the secrets of the emperor,
and has locked up his own," somebody answered.
"And who is that standing near him so splendidly
dressed?"
"The French ambassador, Monsieur Pontois. He
has given up housekeeping, and now boards at a
restaurateur's, where, of course, he cannot entertain."
"A minister that don't give parties ought to stay
at home."
"And what would you do with the British minister?"
"Bury him in the cave of Trephonius, or change
him; into an owl." CIs not that the Vice-President
with some lady under his arm!"
"'Yes, and Major-General Pontiac is making up to
him, in the path made by the Infant of the House,
Mr. Lewis."  Benton and "the Previous Question"
were cheek by jowl together. Some looking at Van
Buren, thought of Henry Clay, erect and tall, and
" proudly eminent," receiving the obeisance of a few
who came from pure respect, and wondered at the
ingratitude of a republic, that a man whose name was
identified with the leading measures of the government for the last thirty years, devoting his life to the
good of his country, should not have been preferred
as a ruler.
Mrs. Madison also received her friends, dressed in




264      VAN BUREN'S ADMINISTRATION.
mourning  for the death of two near relations. She
retained her gracious manners and liberal hospitality.
Parties were announced in honor of the marriage
of Major Van Buren, and the city anticipated gayety
during the coming season. Mr. Blair gave a party,
the cards of invitation to which had long colored ribbons attached to them, streaming through the air as
they were borne along. The French minister made
preparations for the arrival of Signora Vespucci.
The roaring and ranting of Mr. Pickens drew startled
attention from the galleries. A party given by the
wife of General Macomb was attended by all the
officials and distinguished persons disposed to pay
respect to the Commander-in-Chief. M. de Bodisco had
two young nephews at the college in Georgetown, and
issued cards of invitation to a children's ball. The
little girls and boys enjoyed themselves, and ate like
demi-gods. Suddenly Mr. Clay was seen escorting a
lady-Miss Vespucci —recently arrived in Washington. She was saying in French: "I would give half
what I ever expect to possess to be able to converse
with Mr. Webster in his'own language. I saw him
in the East, and was struck with his noble head. Before I heard who he was, I felt that he was a great
malCln."
Mr. Clay's meeting with Mrs. Madison at a party
given by the French minister, was noticed; the lady
rose at his approach, extended her hand, and gave
him one of those smiles which no doubt helped to
make the dominant party adhesive, in the days of her
presidency. Her movements had all the grace, easei
and elasticity of youth. On one occasion a gentle



THE GAY WORLD DASHING OUT.        265
man went up to her and said: "You do not remember me, Mrs. Madison!"
"Yes, I recollect you very well, Mr. — " she
replied. She had not seen him in twenty-six years!
It was this intellectual power, combined with all
the graces and elegances of her sex, that made her
once almost the center and source of power in the
government.
C' When are we going to have a grand quarrel: in
the House?" asked a beautiful womatn with an arch
smile. "I can't tell," replied her companion; "Mr.
Wise is gone to New York; I am afraid we shall be
quiet for a fortnight."  "I don't like quiet; I don't
like peace; I like to see you all quarreling," said the
beauty. - But in tranquillity the gay world dashes
out. At a party given by Mrs. Woodbury, three
apartments and the ball-room on the lower floor were
full; several up stairs in the same condition, and the
stairways strewed with lovely girls. The hostess was
dressed with splendor. As the company arrived and
were presented, they filed off into another room, leading to the ball-room.
"Every Friday evening Mrs. Gales has; reunions
during the session, and all who attend them are in
raptures with the beauty, order, simplicity and elegance of the arrangements."
Mr. Adams was noticed at the theatre during Hackett's performance, seated in the center of the pit.
"During the whole evening he looked neither to the
right nor the left. He was surrounded by large numbers of the members of both houses, who came to
enjoy the character of Falstaff. Adams became in17




266      VAN BUREN'S ADMINISTRATION.
terested-absorbed-and occasionally laughed till his
eyes filled with tears. He has an enthusiasm for the
old English drama, and its effects on him were as
strong and natural as the first play on the nerves of
an innocent country girl. His appearance, with his
fine bald head and few silvery locks, had a picturesque and pleasing effect."
Mr. Van Buren invited the Vespucci to a cabinet
dinner he gave towards the close of January to the
judges of the Supreme Court. It was remarked that
he seemed much struck with the splendid Tuscan
beauty, and had been turning his attention to the
Italian language. He placed Vespucci between himself and Mr. Webster. On sitting down, he asked her
if she spoke English; she replied " a lit," with a
charming smile. But his excellency was prevented
from bringing his Italian into play, by Mr. Webster's
"Parlez vous Frangais?" and the lady's " Oh, oui Monsieur."  An amusing account was given of the efforts
and failures of the two great statesmen, whose French
and Italian were soon exhausted. "Never was there
seen such a specimen of classical pantomime; Mr.
Van Buren and Mr. Webster, sitting on either side of
Vespucci, as dumb as if they had lost their tongues.
Not a single word could they say that she understood;
and not a word she said did they understand. In
this crisis of affairs, an interpreter was discovered at
table, after which the conversation with the fair Florentine went on with great spirit."
An artist from New York-Mr. Linen-painted an
excellent cabinet portrait of Henry Clay, which was
shown in Washington. While Clay was dining with




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VI'I Iv.
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~i~!i:~',~'~'i~ili'-~i~!~.iii i.i'~.~~ iiii~..








THE WHITE HOUSE ON FIRE.        269
the President at one of his regular cabinet dinners
given in rotation every Saturday to the members of
both Houses, a servant whispered to Mr. Van Buren,
"The house is on fire."  Van Buren rose very coolly,
apologized to the gentleman next him, and left the
room for a few minutes. His whole kitchen department was in flames; but a few pails of water quenched
the fire, which had made little progress. When Van
Buren returned to his company, and explained the
cause of his absence, Mr. Clay turned to him, and with
a peculiar look, said: "Mr. President, I am doing all I
can to get you out of this house; but, believe me,"
here he put his hand upon his breast, " I do not want
to burn you out." The expression the artist threw
into his portrait was the same with which Mr. Clay
said these few words. The eyes lighted up, the lips
slightly apart, the big, broad mouth apparent, a half
smile spread over the face, the whole countenance
beaming with the lofty intellect, and blending wit,
dignity and good humor.
Mr. Van Buren's carriage was superb; of a dark
olive hue, with ornaments as bright as burnished gold.
When he entered it, the servant dashed up the steps,
banged to the door, jumped up behind, and away it
rolled as if the vehicle were conscious of bearing the
head of the Republican party.
Henry Clay usually walked from the church to his
lodgings, without blue or gold carriage, blood horses,
or livery servants.
In politics Mr. Clay was the master spirit of the
opposition. Almost every act of general legislation
was determined by the influence it was supposed to




270       VAN BUREN'S ADMINISTRATION.
have on the prospects of the next Presidential election.
The venerable John Quincy Adams was at this time
about seventy-two, but full of health, activity and
vigor both physical and mental. Relieved from'political cares and anxieties, his mind had full play, and
lfe was one of the. best of companions.
A "splendid locofoco jam" was given in February
by the wife of the Attorney-General, Mrs. Gilpin.
Her former husband, Senator Johnston, perished in a
steamboat explosion on Red River. A musical party
given by Madame Calderon, wife of the Spanish minister, was also an event in the beau monde. She was
a young Scotch lady, who came to this country with
her mother, Mrs. Inglis. She was allied to a noble
Scottish family and occupied a high position in Edinburgh. Misfortunes compelled them to emigrate to
Boston, where the mother and two accomplished
daughters established a female seminary, and one
afterwards at New Brighton. Here Mr. Calderon
became acquainted with the family.
"It is the fashion of the day to cry up Preston as
one of the greatest speakers of Congress. A gentleman who had heard a splendid speech from him,
said he had heard every fine figure, every classical
allusion, every brilliant thought, several years before,
applied to a widely different topic." This remark
was hardly just. to Mr. Preston; though he had the
habit of collecting and saving for use, brilliant figures
similes, &c. The writer of this work, while living in
South Carolina, once lent him the poems of Lamartine. When he returned the volumes, several sheets
of manuscript were found in them, filled with trans



WILLIAM C. PRESTON S FIGURES.    271
lations of fine points and passages, some of which he
afterwards introduced into his speeches. Sometimes
he improved on the poets quoted. One passage described an eagle on a dizzy height, plutming himself
on his occupancy of a lofty situation, and rebuked
and humbled by seeing a worm, which had crawled
to the same elevation. Mr. Preston, sympathizing
with the proud bird, thus improved the thought:
"The worm that had ignobly crept to the height,
dared to compare himself to the eagle! The worm
had crawled up; whereas the eagle had stooped from
his companionship with the sun!"
The birthnight ball was given in Carusi's spacious
ball-room. The floor was chalked with eagles, stars,
banners, and the names of twenty-six States. Nicholas
Biddle, then a noted lion, was among the guests.
Amos Kendall, in ball-room costume, with white kid
gloves and satin vest, jostled against the ladies.
Richard Johnson, the Vice-President, presented Mr.
Biddle to the President, Mr. Clay, Mr. Woodbury
and Mr. Forsythe standing by. "How do you find
things in Washington?" asked some one of Mr.
Biddle. "In ten years," said he, "I have not found
politicians of all parties so amiable and friendly."
At supper he was seated next to a lady next the
President, at the head of the center-table. At the
close of the supper, a rush was made for the roses
with which the chandeliers were ornamented. One
hung over the head of the President, and so eager
were those who contended for the spoils, that they
broke the fastenings of the chandelier, and down it
came on Mr. Van Buren's head, roses, grease and all,




:272     VAN BUREN'S ADMINISTRATION.
causing him to retreat to his carriage with his whole
outward man in disorder. Mr. Biddle and Mr. Clay
saved themselves and the ladies under their charge.
The eloquent Menifee of Kentucky was there, with
light hair floating loosely around his fine head, his
large mouth made more capacious by a laugh, his
white wristbands turned carelessly over the sleeves
of his coat.
General Scott arrived the next day, and departed
with full powers to allay the excitement in Maine on
the subject of the boundary question. General Scott
was probably at this time the most remarkable man
in the nation, and the man to whom contending partisans resorted to restore order and protect the
national honor. In the Black Hawk war, in the
Seminole war, in the Canadian insurrection, he was
the hero, negotiator, statesman and military chieftain, who flew to the scene of trouble and calmed
the turmoil and confusion. He occupied the same
attitude in the Maine troubles, having given ample
proofs of the highest order of talent.
A grand fancy ball was given on the 21st February
by the wife of the chief financier of the Bank of
Washington. Mrs. Weightman appeared in the character of Pocahontas, magnificently attired as an Indian princess, receiving the company in her royal
wigwam. Mrs. Haight of New York, who had just
returned from a tour through Russia, Turkey and
western Europe, sketching descriptions by the way,
appeared in a real Turkish dress procured at Constantinople. Mlle. Vespucci as a young Greek girl; a lady
of Louisiana as the Maid of Athens. Miss Peters of




FETE AT M. DE BODISCO'S.        273
Philadelphia, was the Irish basket girl, carrying a
basket full of relics and curiosities for sale. "Will
yer honor buy anything of me?  I have nine small
children, six praties, and not a pen'worth of a husband."
The first half century of Congress under the present constitution, closed on the 3d of March, 1839.
The grand closing fete was given at Mr. Bodisco's
house in Georgetown. In the second suite of rooms,
in glass cases, were various curiosities, the presents
of emperors, kings, diplomatic and learned bodies in
Europe, received by the minister during his diplomatic career. The plate on the supper-table was of
pure silver inlaid with gold and steel, and of curious
and novel workmanship. Mr. Bodisco opened the ball
by a grand promenade round the ball-room to the
music of the band, with the wife of Major-General
Macomb. Among the ladies, Miss Adele Granger of
Canandaigua, was noticed particularly. Her naive
manners and original, discursive imagination, marked
the brilliancy of her intellect. This lady afterwards
married Mr. Thayer, a gentleman of Boston, and is
now the wife of Robert Winthrop. Mr. Webster was
moving through whole phalanxes of ladies, talking
and smiling. Mr. Jennifer of Maryland, was equally
brilliant among the young ladies.
The entertainments given by the foreign ministers
were not all idle, profitless amusement. They formed
some of the links that bind distant nations together.
His Imperial Majesty of all the Russias had never yet
been represented by a minister of half the popularity
or tact of M. de Bodisco. The singular retirement in




2714     VAN BDUREN'S ADMINISTRATION.
which the British minister lived, created an impression of hostility to England, much deeper than shallow observers imagin-ed. Some of the ladies playfully declared his seclusion sufficient cause of war,
General Scott arrived at Saratoga early in August,
many of the magnates of the nation being there already. Scott came unheralded and unattended; yet
he created.a deep, quiet and uncontrollable sensation.
After dinner at the hotel he walked into the grand
drawing-roomrn, where he formed the cen'ter of a group;
the strangers and villagers being collected under the
portico in anxious groups, to catch a glimpse of the
hero and statesman. "Can you point out General
Scott?" asked a countryman, pushing his head through
a window, "Very easily; pick out the man a head
higher than all the others; that is General Scott!".During the promenade Mr. Van Buren was walking
with an old lady on his arm; when he met the General, the latter had to bend down considerably to put
himself on a level with the little President; Mr.
Poinsett and other distinguished personages promenading the drawing-room at the same time.
The grand entrance of Mr. Clay into Saratoga, his
speech under the trees of the United States Hotel,
his coronation with the garland of roses and hyacinths as he passed through the grand porches, and
the splendid coronation ball, were incidents long remeyhbered. While Mr. Clay spoke, at a front window
opposite him, with the piazza intervening, stood the
venerable and dignified Mrs. DeWitt Clinton, looking
like a queen attended by her maids of honor. Lady
Westmoreland stood in the front rank of the crowd,




THE MEETING IN THE DRAWING-ROOM.  275
her brow sparkling with diamonds; General Scott
was leaning against a beech-tree. As Clay came near
the door, the coronet descended from the window of
Mrs. Clinton's room, attached to a silken cord, and
touched the brow of Henry Clay. He put it aside,
and it lighted on the shoulders of a gentleman from
Richmond, Virginia.
A lively writer thus described the meeting of Mr.
Clay and Mr. Van Buren in the drawing-room:
"Mr. Clay first observed his rival at the distance
of seven women and a half, and straightened up two
inches; a few flashes of lightning came from his eyes,
and a smile extended along his rugged cheek. At a
short distance beyond one of the center-tables, stood
General Scott, like a lion looking over a prairie of
heads towards the fox and the wolf approaching each
other; the lion measuring in his mind whether it
might be worth his while to eat them both for his
supper now, or to wait till they becanme a little fatter,
and then to salt them down for a dinner. Every eye
in the grand drawing-room was fixed on the approach
of these great men.
"'Mr. President,' said Mr. Clay, as he came within
a petticoat and a half of Mr. Van Buren,'How do
you do?'
"'I thank you, Mr. Clay, I am happy to see you.
How is your health? I hope I don't obstruct your
progress?' perceiving the promenade blocked up by
the crowd of ladies.
"'Not at all,' replied Mr. Clay,'I have found the
utmost facility in my progress since I entered your
dominions.'




276      VAN BUREN'S ADMINISTRATION.
"For an hour the three luminaries, Van Buren,
Clay and Scott, continued their promenade; Scott
outstripping both in the dignity of his person and
manners, the military grace of his movements and
his engaging conversation.
"Mr. Clay's conversation is fresh, witty and sometimes eloquent; but his manners and air are coarse,
rough-hewn and uncultivated. Mr. Van Buren has
little conversation; his nature is too cold for wit,
fancy or humor. Mr. Clay has a great deal of wit,
humor and fancy, but he wants delicacy, fine taste,
and exquisite finish. General Scott seems to possess
all these qualities of mind and manners, mixed in
such due proportions as peculiarly to fit him to command men and to shine in general society."
Mr. Calhoun's dining with the President the last
of December, was the subject of general comment
among the political gossips of the metropolis. The
visit was understood to have a meaning; and the
President's object was supposed to be healing the bad
blood between Mr. Calhoun and Colonel Benton, and
inducing them to be quiet till after the election.
Forsythe, Paulding, and Poinsett, were the chief
companions of Mr. Van Buren. Mr. Poinsett was
the master spirit of the literary section of the cabinet.'"The amiable disposition of the Secretary of the Treasury, and the fascination of his excellent wife and
family, produced, for one night, an entire suspension
of political hostilities and bitterness."  Thus social
life brightened up, though Congress was voted dull.
In January, 1840, the fashionable world was quiet.
Mrs. Gales and Mrs. Woodbury were both in mourn



BODISCO'S WEDDING.           277
ing. At this time there was said to be wintering in
Washington, eight or ten young ladies of large fortunes
and great accomplishments. One of the principal
topics of conversation was the approaching marriage
of M. de Bodisco to Miss Williams of Washington;
only seventeen, but tall and splendidly developed.
The minister had been struck with her at one of his
children's balls the preceding year. He was a devoted lover, while awaiting the arrival of his emperor's
permission and the bridal robe. Mr. Fox, it was said,
was to be his groomsman.
The fashionable movements were inaugurated in
February. A party given by Mrs. Polk went off
with great eclat, and the first " Washington assembly"
was held in the dancing saloon at Carusi's rooms.
The marriage took place on the 9th of April. The
attendants of the bridegroom were assembled about
four in the afternoon, and proceeded to the residence
of Mr. Williams. They were, in regular order: Senator
Buchanan, Mr. Fox, General Dunlap, Texan Minister;
Mr. Martini, Minister from the Netherlands; M. Seruys,
Belgian Minister; Mr. Stockel of the Russian Legation; a son of the President, and a son of the Secretary of the Navy. There were eight bridesmaids;
the first, Miss Jessie Benton, who walked with Mr.
Buchanan. In the church the attendants made a
circle, the bride and bridegroom in the center, the
relatives and witnesses around them.  The bridal
cake was in the form of a pyramid, and encircled
with a wreath of white roses.
The bride wore a rich satin brocade, and veil of
Honiton lace; her ornaments simply a pearl sprig




278      VAN BUREN'S ADMINISTRATION.
and pin. The brides-maids wore rich figured satin
trimmed with lace, a plain gold bandeau and wreath
of orange blossoms. Mr. Clay gave away the bride.
M. de Bodisco wore his splendid court dress of silver decorated with several orders; the foreign ministers of his train wearing their uniforms. A magnificent dinner was served at his house for forty persons. The Vice-President, General Scott, Mr. Forsythe, General and Mrs. Macomb, and other distinguished guests were present.
Fanny Ellsler made her first appearance in the
capital in July, 1840, before a brilliant house; a sea
of moving beauty, fashion and talent. Congress adjourned at an early hour to see the enchantress in
the tarantella and the cracovienne. The venerable
ex-President Adams appeared delighted with the performance.
At a party at the Spanish minister's in January,
the great attraction of the evening was a Chinese
mandarin, from Canton. He stood upon the rug in
one of the luxurious apartments, and looked upon
the scene with great gravity for some hours. He
was presented to many of the ladies, and one of them
asked him "how he liked the dancing." He replied
that it seemed a pretty amusement, but rather troublesome, he thought, for those engaged in it; adding that
in his country they always hired the dancers at parties.
Being asked if he thought the women pretty, he answered that women were pretty all over the world; and
so they were in America, and so they were in China.
When asked how he liked the large feet, he replied
that "in China it was customary to make the feet




MR. CRITTENDEN.             279
small; and in America, he supposed, it was the custom to have them large."  Thus he answered every
question like a diplomatist.
The following remarks were made on Mr. Crittenden: "Mr. Crittenden is one of the most forcible and
impressive speakers in the Senate. For a sudden,
unpremeditated effort, he certainly has no superior.
His diction is rich almost to superabundance; his
style is chaste and energetic, and his manner agreeable. To the discussion of every subject he always
brings a store of valuable information; his illustrations are always apposite, and he illuminates every
topic with such a flood of light, that none but a blind
man can fail to see the whole matter clearly and distinctly. Mr. Buchanan spoke in opposition. Mr.
Crittenden followed in reply, and scattered his arguments like dry leaves before a hurricane."
A singular double lecture was given at the Tabernacle in New York, by General Gaines and his wife,
on "National Defence" and "The Horrors of War."
Mrs. Gaines occupied the third seat from the platform,
immediately in front of the General while he was
speaking. He wore the full uniform of a general officer, and had a diagram of the embouchure of the
Mississippi behind him, to which he pointed with his
drawn sword. When he had concluded his address,
Dr. Griscom advanced to Mrs. Gaines' seat, and conducted her to the platform amid immense cheering.
She was dressed in a black velvet pelisse, and wore
ear-rings and diamonds in her hair, with a rich silk
hat ornamented with a waving plume of bird of paradise feathers. She held in her hand a small manu



280      VAN BUREN'S ADMINISTRATION.
script from which she read her lecture.  General
Gaines stood behind her during most of it.
Senator Hugh Lawson White of Tennessee, resigned
his post in 1840, on account of "instructions" he
could not follow. He died in the May following.
Senator Preston pronounced a beautiful eulogium on
him. Senator Hayne of South Carolina, was in person of the medium size or a little taller, and of a
graceful form. He had a fine, manly and expressive
face. His manners were easy, cordial and unaffected;
his address was winning; and his mental qualities
were solid, brilliant and practical. He was always
employed in useful objects, pursued from high motives and by fair and open means. With varied
talents, he was distinguished as a Senator, and during his ten years of service, worked indefatigably.
He bore a name dear to the South, and had the advantages of fortune and family connection. He was
twice married, into the Pinckney and Alston families.
He was a party in the great debate with Webster,
and became Governor of South Carolina to enforce
the nullification ordinance.
Philip P. Barbour, Justice of the Supreme Court,
was in 1820 a Representative from Virginia, and his
duties in one office or another occupied him at Washington during twenty-one winters.  He was called
"a man worthy of the best days of the Republic;
modest, pure, patriotic, full of domestic affections,
devoted to Virginia as his mother State, and a friend
to the Union. He was for some time Speaker of the
House, and was appointed to the bench of the Supreme Court by President Van Buren, in 1837, in




COMMODORE PORTER.              281
place of Justice Duval. He was in turn succeeded
by Peter V. Daniel. Barbour was a Virginia country
gentleman, after the most perfect model of that class;
living on his baronial estate with his family, slaves,
flocks and herds. He was a strict votary of that
school of politics of which Jefferson, Madison, John
Taylor of Caroline, Monroe, Macon, &c., were the
great exemplars.
The naval career of Commodore Porter illustrated
the benefits of the cruising system in our naval warfare. His personal history was full of incident and
adventure, in keeping with his generous and heroic
character. He was a lion on the quarter-deck and
in battle, " the Paul Jones of the second war of Independence." His death occurred during Tyler's Presidency.




HARRISON'S ADMINISTRATION'.
Grand Jubilee in honor of Harrison's Election-The President's Dinner-Crowds to witness the Inauguration-" The Father of the
House "-" An unruly Set of Boys "-Major Barney-The three Generals Candidates for the Succession-The Farmer and the President
-Heiresses and Beauties-Phases of Society in Washington-The
Southern Aristocracy and the Official Circles-Forms and Barriers
swept away by the Russian Minister-The Circle professionalDeath of the President-The Military Funeral-The Ladies of the
Family-Fears for Mrs. Harrison-Third time of Tyler's stepping into
Place by the Death of the Incumbent-His Arrival in Washington
and taiaing of the Oath of Office-Character of President Harrison.
THERE was a grand jubilee in Alexandria in November, 1840, in honor of the election of General
William  Henry  Harrison to the Presidency of the
United States. The freedom of the city was given
to more than two thousand visitors. There was a
procession; and a car drawn by four white horses,
carried nineteen young girls, each waving the flag of
a victorious State. "Welcome" was written on every
house, and all the doors were thrown open to strangers and guests; the ladies crying, "Enter, Whigs!"
Mr. George Washington Parke Custis, of Arlington
House, addressed the crowd in Market Square, commlencing with "Friends and fellow-patriots, and most
patriotic ladies." The adopted son of Washington,




THE HERO OF NORTH BEND.          283
whose hair was white with the snows of many winters, was very enthusiastic over "' the glorious second
revolution."
General Harrison had already received thousands
of applications for office, filed them all and docketed
them, with the careful indorsement, "To be last considered."  He wrote to a friend: "I shall make no
promises of office to any one, nor shall I give any
intimation of my purposes in regard to the formation
of my cabinet. I am determined not to quarrel with
any of my friends before the 4th of March."
" The Hero of North Bend" was to arrive in Washington February 11th, the day after the votes were
counted in the House of Representatives. Mr. Van
Buren intended to break up his household on the 20th
February, and to stay for the rest of his term of
office'with his friend the Attorney General, Henry
D. Gilpin.
A splendid reception was given General Harrison
in Baltimore. He was received at the railway station
by a deputation headed by the Chief Marshal, and
escorted to his hotel. The President elect was left*
on Sunday in peace, but on Monday morning the
crowd assembled in front, and the old gentleman
came out, was introduced by John P. Kennedy with
a neat little speech, and received his visitors. At one
o'clock he received the ladies of Baltimore in another
part of the hotel. His reception in Washington was
on his birthday, and his welcome was enthusiastic.
He called on Mr. Van Buren, who invited him to dinner. At this dinner were present the cabinet, Mr.
Wright, Mr. Vanderpoel, and Mr. Keinble, besides the
18




284       HARRlISON S ADMINISTRATION.
President elect and his suite. Politics were banished
from the conversation; and it was said the French
cook did his best, hoping to be retained by the new
President. General Harrison said to Benton across
the table: "Benton, I beg you not to be harpooning
mle in the Senate; if you dislike anything in my ad~ministration, put it into Clay or Webster, but don't
harpoon me." Benton, it was said, very good humoredly agreed by a nod, to separate the responsibility
of the throne from "the power behind the throne."
Harrison visited the capitol the next day but one.
The greeting between him and Mr. Benton was courteous and cordial, and he spoke to Mr. Calhoun, as to
an old and attached friend. Calhoun left his seat and
retired with Harrison to the recess. It was remarked:
"General Harrison seems the only man among the
whigs who is happy, contented, smiling, satisfied,
benevolent, and capable of taking a night's rest. He
cracks his jokes, and fights his battles o'er again, and
appoints his cabinet with the greatest enjoyment.
Mr. Van Buren meets his fate like a philosopher. The
President coming in, and the President going out,
seem to be the only two quiet and satisfied men in
Washington. General Harrison having the most wit
and repartee, and Mr. Van Buren the most indifference and carelessness."
The Herald gave the private history of the selection of the cabinet, as a curious series of movements.
Soon after the election, General Harrison offered the
State department to Mr. Clay, and intended to give
the Treasury to Mr. Webster, Cdcsigning the four remaining departments for four prominent men from




HARRISON'S CABINET.           285
the different sections, based on geographical, political
and personal considerations. Mr. Clay declined, preferring his position in the Senate, where he could
shape and support the measures of the new administration. General Harrison then resolved to offer the
State department to Mr. Webster, the Attorney-Generalship to Mr. J. J. Crittenden, and the Post-office to
Mr. Ewing. A movement was made in the newspapers to overawe the action of the President, by declaring that neither Webster nor Clay ought to be in
the cabinet, because they were the two greatest men
of the whig party, and their intellect and talents
were of course a disquaification for the cabinet, inasmuch as many would think of them for the succession. Mr. Webster defeated this small intrigue by
accepting the offer, as did Mr. Crittenden and Mr.
Ewing. The vacancies were filled on sectional principles.-  Nearly the entire whig delegation of New
York selected Mr. Granger, a gentleman of intelligence, education and high character, who had the
Post-office given him —Mr. Ewing taking the Treasury department. The War office was given to John
Bell; the Navy, which was to be given to the South,
was assigned to Mr. Badger by the Southern whigs.
General Harrison was noted as one of the most
benevolent men of the age; kind-hearted to a remarkable degree and very patriotic.  "The fierce,
obstinate, energetic will which characterized General
Jackson did not belong to him. His presidency will
be the most beneficent of all, if his spirit prevail to
any extent. His cabinet will have great sway, as it
ought, Daniel Webster being the master spirit, the




286       HARRISON'S ADMINISTRATION.
organizing impulse, the comprehensive soul, the representative of the age and century.  The eyes of
Europe and America are upon him, and in his present
position he may exercise a greater influence upon the
age than any man since the days of Washington."
Mr. Clay was the premier of the legislative department, while Mr. Webster was that of the executive.
c" They will check and counter-check each other, while
the old General himself takes things very easy-sits
in his arm-chair in the White House, cracks his jokes
by the fireside, fights his battles o'er again, compliments the married ladies, rallies the old bachelors,
and pats the cheeks of the pretty girls with great
glee and pleasure. Yet I think it must be a hardworking, an up-hill administration that will be met
with opposition from the jump." The most untiring,
unforgiving and relentless opposition was to be encountered.
The weather was very cold, while Washington was
filling with crowds to witness the inauguration. Mr.
Van Buren took advantage of the cold to fill the
Presidential ice-house. He is said to have remarked:
"The President elect is the most extraordinary man
I ever saw. Hie does not seem to realize the vast importance of his elevation. He talks and thinks with
as much ease and vivacity as if he were a young man.
He is tickled with the Presidency as a young woman
is with a new bonnet."
Others thought Harrison would succeed the better
in his management of public affairs from the very
fact that he entered the White I-louse with a joyous
joke on his lips. "Let his cabinet be harpooned, but




THE PRESIDENT'S JOKES.         287
he himself will have a happy time in the White
House. General Jackson filled the palace with the
vulgar fumes of smoke from  an old long pipe. Mr.
Van Buren, at an expense of sixty thousand dollars,
cleaned the apartments, whitewashed the smoky ceilings, and filled it with preciseness and cold pedantry.
General Harrison will change the vulgarity of the
one, and the pretension of the other. He will make
these gorgeous halls reverberate with merry peals of
laughter, refined repartee, excruciating anecdotes
and sparkling bonmots."
"Let me introduce Mr. Williams, of North Carolina
to you, General," said a -member of his new cabinet to
him one day. "c Mr. Williams is the oldest member of
the House of Representatives, and you know is called
the Father of the House."
"Mir. Williams," replied Harrison, shaking hitn by
the hand, " I am glad to see the Father of the House,
and the more so because you have a very unruly set
of boys to deal with, as I know."  The General's face
was beaming with a benignant smile, and the bystanders broke into a roar.of laughter.
Allen, the editor of the Madisonian, a small; slight
young man, not much of a lawyer, was introduced to
the General. "Happy to see you, 3Mr. Allen. You
are a good-looking chap for these parts of the world,
but there is hardly raw material enough in you for
the girls beyond the Alleghanies!"
During General Harrison's sojourn in Baltimore,
when he received the visits of the ladies, the Hon.
John Barney, formerly member of Congress froin
Maryland, stood beside him to assist at the presenta



288       HARRISON'S ADMINISTRATION.
tions. Looking at the lovely assemblage, Major Bar.
ney waved his hand, and appealed with, "Now, General Harrison, have you ever seen such a blaze of
beauty and loveliness!"  The old General looked at
them, then at the gallant Major, and replied with a
half benevolent, half satirical smile, in the words of
the old song:
" Oh, Barney, leave the girls alone,
Oh, Barney, leave the girls alone."
the Major exploding like a steamboat on the Mississippi. The anecdote flew over Baltimore, and for once
the office seeking lazzaroni and suspending financiers
forgot their wretchedness in one good sound, substantial broad laugh, at the joke.
General Harrison had been a guest at the house of
Mr. Seaton, Mayor of the city, for a few days before
the inauguration. At noon the procession entered
the northern gate of the- Capitol Square, and the
President elect was escorted into the Senate Chamber.
He proceeded escorted by that body, the Judges of
the Supreme Court, and the Foreign Ministers, to the
platform under the grand eastern portico, where the
inaugural address was delivered. Over the heads of
the august company rose the splendid Corinthian columns, over them the magnificent dome, and over that
the bright blue sky. In front were the musical bands;
to the right and left military companies; and immense
crowds of people filled the square in every direction.
They hung around the steps, pedestals and columns;
some were seen crawling, small as bees, around the
foot of the dome, and leaning over the dizzy heights
of the highest porticoes. After the ceremonies, the




THE FARMER AND THE PRESIDENT.    289
President.proceeded to the White House, where he
received the congratulations of his friends.
General Scott had arrived shortly before the inauguration, accompanied by General Coombes of Kentucky, and Colonel DeKay of New York. "The hero
of Lundy's Lane" was well and in good spirits. General Gaines was there too; and "all standing in the
position of capital candidates for the succession in
1845."
The pomp, parade and pageantry of the inauguration having passed away;-the session of the Senate
succeeding it, with the arrival of the English messengers and the struggles for office, the great business
of the administration began. General Harrison won
golden opinions from all sorts of people. Is frank,
plain, unostentatious demeanor became the soldier
and one to whom the simplicity of a patriarchal age
was natural. At North Bend he had been distinguished for hospitality and benevolence, and he
brought to Washington all the habits and feelings
which had endeared him to the people of Ohio.
A plain, farmer-like man called to see the President
one stormy day while he was at dinner, and was shown
by the servant to a room where there was no fire.
General Harrison asked, "Why did you not show the
man into this room, where it is warm and comfortable?"
The servant said something about soiling the carpet. "Never mind the carpet another time," said the
General. "The man is one of the people; and the
carpet and the house too, belong to the people."
An extra session was called for, to comnmence on




290        HARRISON's    ADMINISTRATION.
the 31st of May. Meanwhile, towards the close of
March the President was a sufferer from bilious pleurisy, which confined him to his bed. The bell of the
palace was muffled, the physicians directing that the
patient should be quiet and undisturbed.
The beautiful weather of this season brought out
the fashionables in bevies. New York heiresses and
beauties, and beauties and heiresses from the District,
Baltimore, Richmond, Maryland and Virginia, all were
in Washington; and it was expected that the extra
session would bring hundreds from Alabama, Mississippi and the evergreen homes of Louisiana.
"Society in Washington," said an observer, C" is very
clannish, and there is not a place in America where
there is so much sycophancy to station. By this I
mean that the resident population make it their business to court the influence of office-holders, of men
of public distinction. During the last inauguration,
there was in this city, the greatest collection of private gentlemen ever convened in this country. Most
of those men were of high character, wealth and
learning, and their letters of civility were received
and treated like an application for office. There are
several divisions in society. Probably the first and
most worthy and well mannered is the ancient aristocracy of Virginia and Maryland. This class is not
very rich, but is very proud. All the families attached
to their circle have pretty and educated daughters;
and he who can show the most title-deeds and will
bid up, is likely to win the brightest flower in their
field of beauty. These families are very envious of
the lovely daughters of Kentucky and the remote




WASHINGTON SOCIETY.            291
South, and without intending it, they are sure to
point out a hundred faults in every girl who comes
here to dash for an elegant husband. And yet this
aristocracy is a most worthy part of society in the
District. In its ranks may be found the widows of
distinguished soldiers in the army and of gallant captains in the navy; the children of dead senators, lawyers and judges. They are truly proud of their lineage, and not unfrequently call up the achievements
and exploits of their ancestry.
"There is always a large circle in Washington formed
by the President, Secretaries, auditors and chief clerks.
This class embraces a great multitude of visitors from
every part of the Union. General Harrison and his
cabinet can make any favorite girl a belle, and so can
Clay or Preston.  This official circle in the more
agreeable amusements of society, is from necessity
considerably exclusive. They receive and entertain
a great many upon the common forms; but none
save intimate friends ever reach their fireside sociability and freedom. On public occasions and at great
parties the leading officers of government are very
complacent and patronize strangers. They are willing to do this much, and then they expect you to
make your way through spciety and bother them no
more.'The foreign ministry have in their train a long
list of sycophantic good-for-nothings, who have little
modesty and less behavior.  The ministry proper,
though a little odd in their ways and grotesque in appearance, are all clever fellows; they are treated politely by American citizens, and some of the ladies,




292       HARRISON S ADMINISTRATION.
who are full of romance and curiosity, grow very frisky
at sight of an attache, and cannot conceal a longing
they have to dance and flirt with the interesting foreigners. The ministers live high, and are fond of company and gayety. Bodisco, the Russian minister, by
his marriage in the District, has broken down and
swept away many of the forms and barriers formerly
in the way of a more intimate association with the
foreign diplomatic corps. Curiosity, as much as any
other consideration, makes these men interesting. To
their trailers, every now and then, they give expensive entertainments.
"There is then an extensive circle, made up of lawyers, merchants, and half made people, who by luck
have come suddenly into possession of what the miser
loves most. These people form their own coteries
and have very merry times; in their families there is
much beauty and quite a dash of intelligence and accomplishment. Some of them are modest and retired;
some religious; some fashionable, and some foolish.
"It takes all these circles to make the society of a
court-city like Washington.  Out of them may be
carved a distinct and extensive army who rally as'the glass of fashion.' This division of every class
is very lazy and for the most part very stupid; the
members lead a life of excessive dissipation."
One month from the day of his inauguration, on
the 4th April, 1841, William Henry Harrison died at
the White House. The Rev. Dr. Hawley was in the
room where he lay, with his medical and personal attendants, and in the adjoining room were a number
of his friends, anxiously waiting for intelligence. At




DEATH OF THE PRESIDENT.         293
twenty minutes before one o'clock on Sunday morning, Dr. Hawley announced the dreaded event.
The cabinet, assembled in the adjoining room, immediately drew up an official statement. Mrs. Harrison was still at North Bend.
The last words of the President were: "I wish
you to understand and remember, the principles that
govern me, and carry them out. I ask no more."
Mrs. William  Harrison, the President's widowed
daughter-in-law, had been constantly at his side till
consciousness departed. Miss Clark of Baltimore was
there too, till compelled by her feelings to leave the
room. She was the daughter of a lady who, General
Harrison had often said, saved his life when he was a
member of Congress. He always bore the warmest
gratitude and affection to every member of the family.
During the last day of his life, he received everything from Miss Clark with more satisfaction than
from any other hand. She remained, with Mrs. Findlay, Mrs. Harrison and Mrs. Taylor of Richmond,
niece to the President, constantly at his bedside
during his illness, and nothing human foresight or
unremitting attention could do to alleviate the fatal
disease was left undone.  The other relatives and
connections present in the executive mansion were
Mr. D. O. Copeland, the nephew of the President;
Henry Harrison of Virginia, his grand-nephew, and
Findlay Harrison of Ohio, his grandson. The disease,
according to the report of the physicians, was pneumonia, with congestion of the liver and derangement
of the stomach and bowels.
On the following day the public were admitted to




294       HARRISON'S ADMINISTRATION.
view the remains, lying in the large hall just within
the entrance to the palace. Mr. Thatcher Webster,
chief clerk of the Department of State, had been immediately despatched to bring Mr. Tyler, the VicePresident, to Washington.  The military arrangements for the funeral were under the direction of
Major-General Macomb, Commander-in-Chief of the
army, and Major-General Walter Jones of the militia
of the District of Columbia.  The civic procession
was directed by the Marshal and the Mayors of Washington, Georgetown and Alexandria.
Fears were expressed for Mrs. Harrison,nwvho was
then aged and infirm. She had feared the worst,
knowing how little the General would spare himself
when his public duties demanded his time and action.
She had not wished his election; in fact had expressed
herself opposed to, it, valuing her family comfort before all worldly honors. General Harrison had completed his sixty-eighth year the day he entered Washington in triumph on his way from North Bend to
Virginia. He was a pure patriot. His youth had
been passed among scenes of the Revolution, and
love of liberty, courage, and devotion to his country,
had marked his whole career. He was benevolent,
sincere and ardent in his attachments, frank and unostentatious in his demeanor and cheerful in his disposition. It was said by one who knew him well,
that his suavity of manners, his generosity and kindness of heart, invariably won him. the warm affections
of those who were placed under his authority; while
his moderation, his disinterestedness, his scrupulous
attention to the public interests, and the wisdom with




MR. TYLER'S ACCESSION.        295
which he exercised the extensive powers entrusted to
him, commanded respect and confidence.
In person, General Harrison was slender, and rather
under the middle height. His features were irregular
and rather strongly marked. His eyes were dark
and penetrating; his forehead high but narrow; his
mouth denoted firmness, and his expression indicated
benevolence.
HIis constitution had never been robust, and the
fatigues of his journey from North Bend, with the
excitement consequent upon the inauguration and
the subsequent scenes, conspired to produce the fatal
disease.
It was noticed as remarkable that Mr. Tyler now
stepped for the third time into a high public trust by
the death of the incumbent. He was made Governor
of Virginia by the death of the Executive; he was
made a Senator by the death of one before his time
expired; and now he became President of the United
States.
The greatest, anxiety was expressed by all whigs
to know if he would carry out General Harrison's
plans and wishes; if he would retain the cabinet;
or if he would branch off on a new track of Virginia
politics.
Mr. John Tyler arrived in Washington on Tuesday,
taking the oath of office on the 6th April.




XI.
TYLER'S ADMINISTRATION.
Confidence in John Tyler-A Model of Courtesy and Dignity-The
weather-beaten Englishman —Scene at Tyler's Home-Rumors of the
British Minister's Marriage-The Ladies of the Executive Mansion
-Mrs. Robert Tyler-Extracts from her Letters describing Life
at the White House-Receptions, &c.-The First Diplomatic Dinner-The City full of splendid Women-A Lady's Conversation with
the President-Summer Assemblages in the Executive Grounds,
with Music-The Fourth of July-Fashionable Belles and Statesmen
on the Promenade, at the rural Re-unions-Fancy of the Negroes
about the Veto-Political Disagreements no Bar to Social Gayety
-Incident at Mrs. Crittenden's Party-Mrs. Bell's Party in August
-Mrs. Robert Tyler's Description of her New Year's Reception,
and of Madame Bodisco's Party, and the Ball in the Theatre-Lord
Morpeth at Dinner at the White House-Justices of the Supreme
Court-Party at the "Mess" at Kennedy's-The Butcher at the
President's-Mrs. Tyler's Reception for Dickens.
ALL eyes were now turned, with doubt and anxiety,
to the organization of the administration under the
new President.  The whigs were excited and agitated,
and the conservatives fill of joyous expectations. Yet
it was admitted that, so far as the interests of the country were concerned, Mr. Tyler might be relied on with
perfect confidence.   He was acknowledged  to be a
man of a very high order of talent and much experience as a statesman. Elevated and patriotic in his
views, of a frank, gallant and independent spirit, it




CHARACTER OF MR. TYLER.         297
was known that he would -administer the government
with reference to the true interests of the people,
without regard to the wishes and schemes of cliques.
He belonged to the national and practical class of
Virginia politicians. Without running into the extreme of radicalism which distinguished Mr. Jefferson, and avoiding any loose interpretation of the Constitution, Mr. Tyler coincided generally with the views
and principles of Mr. Madison. He had always been
held in very high estimation by the citizens of his
native State, and had occupied important positions.
After having served as Governor of Virginia, he had
been elected over John Randolph to the Senate of
the United States, in 1828.
After it had been determined to nominate General
Harrison for the Presidency, Mr. Tyler was selected
for Vice-President, to receive the support of the South,
and without reference to his political principles, or
inquiry as to his sentiments upon the prominent measures of the whig party. Thus everything in his history and character warranted the supposition that he
would administer the government on the most elevated and honorable principles.
" Nothing can be more admirable than the bearing
and demeanor of President Tyler to the innumerable
applicants for his countenance and favor. He is a
model of courtesy, urbanity, kindness and dignity. I
have never seen a President whose port and manner
were so commanding, and at the same time so acceptable to all who approached him. General Jackson was
a man of much dignity of manner, and most imposing
presence; but he was capricious, fastidious, irritable,




298         TYLER S ADMINISTRATION.
and sometimes overbearing. President Tyler is abundantly courteous and graceful in his address, but there
is nothing of hauteur or condescension in his manner;
it is affable, natural, frank and gentlemanly. He is
considerate to the applications of all, but none go
away with delusive hlopes. No man has a kinder or
more benevolent heart, none a more resolute and determined spirit. An old weather-beaten Englishman
called on him for assistance to-day. lie carried a letter from the English consul at Baltimore. The President read his papers over attentively.
4" Sir,' said he,' I am not the proper person to apply
to. You must go to the British minister.'
"'CI have been to Mr. Fox,' said the old man,'but
he declines to do anything for hme. The consul at
Baltimore sent me to the vice-consul at Alexandria;
but I got no relief from him.''' Go to the Secretary of State,' said Mr. Tyler,'and
say that I request him to take your case into consideration.'
"' I have been there, and Mr. Webster says he has
no jurisdiction in the matter.'
"But the President would not permit the brokendown old man to depart.
"'John! John!' His private secretary had stepped
into the next room:' Go in there, and my son will
see what can be done for you."'
Whether the case- was one that admitted of relief
from the Executive is not known; but the old man
was sensibly touched by the sympathy and interest
manifested in his behalf.
A scene was said to have occurred at his private




ADDRESS TO HIS CHILDREN.        299
dwelling in Williamsburg, immediately after receiving
the news of his accession to the Presidency:  He
called his sons and daughters, including Robert's wife,
about him, and in the presence of some intimate
friends, addressed them, informing them of the deplorable event which had brought about his unexpected
elevation; reminded them that the promotion was
only temporary, and should be sustained with humility
and meekness. "To you, Priscilla and Elizabeth," he
continued —" it is, I trust, scarcely necessary to say,
that, as upon you will presently devolve the duty of
presiding at the White House, you should be equal
and untiring in your affabilities to all; and you should
remember that nothing betrays a little soul so much
as the exhibition of airs or assumptions under any
circumstances. My sons, too, must not forget the
saying of the ancient hero who desired his family, instead of abandoning themselves to exultation for his
triumph, to bear in mind that in the next battle he
might be beaten. True nobleness of soul is only
evinced in never suffering station to tempt us into a
forgetfulness of ourselves, and of what we owe to others. In short, my sons and daughters, whatever you
say or do, act with reference to the day which is so
close at hand, when I must return to plain John Tyler,
and may you never, as the President's family, either
in thought, word, or deed, do aught which you will
regret to be told of hereafter, when you shall be
nothing higher than plain John Tyler's children."
Could they be anything higher than the children of
a great and good man, with such a soul as is here indicated?
19




300         TYLER'S ADMINISTRATION.
The President once remarked to an acquaintance
that it seemed there could not be a thought in the
human mind; which might not be found somewhere
in Shakspeare.
The other answered that it must be so. "I remember even the substance of Mr. Clay's long argument
against you for signing the veto, comprised in two lines
of the bard of Avon:
"'Conscience!'tis our coin! we live by parting with it,
And he thrives best, who has the most to spare.'
Had you parted with your conscience by permitting
the ten days to elapse, which were required to make
the bank bill a law, Mr. Clay is of opinion you would
have thriven better."
It was thought that the extra session would obliterate all the old party lines, and that a new organization would be formed.
Washington was.always an extraordinary place for
rumors. When the Spanish minister sold out his furniture, and Mr. Fox bought many elegant and valuable articles and sent them to his house, the report that
he was going to leave the country in a rage, gave
place to one that he was about to get married. The
ladies talked a deal about this antiquated mummy-like
representative of Her Majesty, but none of them
could tell what was going to happen.
Summer commenced in May, in all its beauty and
brightness.  The capitol yard and public grounds
were decorated with the richest variety of roses, tulips, hyacinths, and beautiful exotics.  One peony
bush bent under the weight of nearly a hundred




MRS. ROBERT TYLER.            301
flowers, many of which were six inches in width.
Some of the ladies of the President's family arrived
the last of April-Mrs. Tyler, Jr.j the wife of his son,
and Miss Tyler. The wife of the President was in
delicate health, and would not leave home till the
weather became settled.  The younger Mrs. Tyler
was described as a very elegant and accomplished
woman, and Miss Tyler as beautiful, graceful and
lady-like. With such aids to the proverbial urbanity
and dignity of the President, it was reasonably expected that the hospitalities of the executive mansion would soon be dispensed in a style of elegance
and good taste. John Tyler's first wife was Letitia
Christian of Virginia.
Mrs. Robert Tyler possessed great conversational
powers, with a playful humor and readiness at repartee, which made her society peculiarly fascinating.
She had, too, a tender heart, " open as day to melting charity;" and her devotion to parents, children
and friends, had rendered her the idol of a domestic
circle. She was the grand-daughter of Major Fairlie,
of New York, an officer in the Revolutionary war,
and a distinguished citizen. Her mother was a celebrated belle, whom Washington Irving remembered
vividly as his friend, and one of the most brilliant
women of the day;'a fair and witty and most worthy
lady. Her father was Mr. Cooper, one of the most eminent tragedians of that time. Educated with great
care, her splendid natural'qualities of mind were so
developed as to dignify and adorn the highest station.
She had been accustomed from childhood to the best
society, and among her mother's intimate friends were




302         TYLER'S ADMINISTRATION.
the Hosacks, the Livingstons, the McEvers, the Pauldings, and many of the most distinguished families in
New York. The young lady first met Robert Tyler
in Richmond, and was married to him less than a year
afterwards. He was said to be a young man of brilliant genius, in high-wrought and vivid imagery resembling Shelley, whom he was like in person; and
as an orator, he had made a very favorable impression.
The following extract is from a letter to Mrs. Tyler's
sister, dated Washington, April 29th, 1841:
"What wonderful changes take place! my dearest
M  -. Here am I, nde Priscilla Cooper ('nez retrouss6' you will perhaps think) actually living inand what is more, presiding at-the White House!
I look at myself like the little old woman, and exclaim:'Can this be I?' I have not had one moment
to myself since my arrival, and the most extraordinary thing is that I feel as if I had been used to living here always; and receive the cabinet, ministers,
the diplomnatique corps, the heads of the army and
navy, etc., etc., with a facility which astonishes me?'Some achieve greatness-some are born to it.' I am
plainly born to it. I really do possess a degree of
modest assurance that surprises me more than it does
any one else. I am complimented on every side; my
hidden virtues are coming out. I am considered'charmante' by the Frenchmen,'lovely' by the Americans, and'really quite nice, you know,' by the English."
"May-, 1841.-.....  We have had a cabinet
dinner, and I have disgraced myself with father for



THE CAB3INET DIfNER.         303
ever: —just in the full tide of successful experiment,
at the moment the ices were being put upon the table,
everybody in a good humor, and all going'merry as
a marriage bell' —what should I do but grow deathly
pale, and, for the first time in my life, fall back in a
fainting fit! Mr. Webster, who was sitting next me,
picked me up in his arms, and took me away from
the table; and Mr. Tyler, with his usual impetuosity,
deluged us both with ice-water, ruining my lovely
new dress, and, I am afraid, producing a decided coolness between himiself and the Secretary of State. I
had to be taken to my room,, and poor Mr. Webster
had to be shaken off, dried and brushed, before he
could resume his place at the table! What a contretemps!....
May -, 1841.....Besides the cabinet dinner
I mentioned in my last letter, we have had two other
dinners, and are about having a State diplomatique
dinner-at all of which entertainments your'accomplished' sister presides-sitting opposite the President with the most important man in the company
at her right hand! I have had some lovely dresses
made which fit me to perfection-one a pearl-colored
silk that would set you crazy. Its effect, with pink
roses in the hair, and bouquet de corsage of the same
flowers, I will leave you to imagine.
"I occupy poor General Harrison's room. I had
no superstitious feeling upon the subject, and it is as
pleasant as possible. The nice, comfortable bed-room,
with its handsome furniture and curtains, its luxurious arm-chairs, and all its belongings, I enjoy, I believe, more than anything else in the establishment.




304         TYLER'S ADMINISTRATION.
The pleasantest part of my life is when I can shut
myself up here with my precious baby. You ought
to see her, she is too lovely! The greatest trouble I
anticipate is paying visits. There was a doubt at
first whether I must visit in person or send cards-;
but I asked Mrs. Madison's advice upon the subject,
and she says:'Return all my visits by all means.'
Mrs. Bache says so too. So three days in the week I
am to spend three hours a day driving from one street
to another in this city of magnificent distances. The
victim for this sacrifice is to be adorned in a white
chip bonnet, trimmed with moss rose-buds, from Lawson's in New York. I could spend my time here
charmingly if it were not for' the duties of my situation.' I do not see nearly so much of Sophy Irwin
and Mrs. Bache as I could wish,... and I see so
many great men, and so constantly, that I cannot
appreciate the blessing!  I know you will think I
ought to give you my impressions of these' intellectual giants,' instead of talking of dresses, bonnets,
&c., &c.  The fact is, when you meet them  in
every-day life, you forget they are great men at
all, and just find them  the most charming companions in the world, talking the most delightful
nonsense, especially the almost awful-looking Mr.
Webster, who entertains me with the most charming
gossip.  There is one thing particularly gratifying
to me: among the many distinguished men I have
met, there are but few who do not speak of having
known and admired our dear father and mother.
Aunt Louisa's wit and beauty, too, are constantly
alluded to."....




DEATH OF GENERAL MACOMB.          305
"WASHINGTON, ------—, 1841.
"Well, my first diplomatique dinner is over-oh!
such a long one! Our first dinner in the state dining-room. I was the only lady at table. What with
the long table, the flowers, and lights, and brilliant
dresses and orders of the Dips (not dip-candles) the
various wines and innumerable courses-I felt dreadfully- confused. Mr. Webster says I acquitted myself
admirably. I tried to be as cheerful as possible, though
I felt miserable all the time, as my baby was crying
and I received message after message to come to the
nursery...  I think that father is a charming
host-he received his guests with so much courtesy
and simplicity of manner-and I do not think his
powers of conversation surpassed or even equalled
by the great men around him. The British minister,
Mr. Fox, is frightful to behold. He has the reputation of great ability. I will write you, soon, a description of each legation."....
The death of General Macomb furnished an opportunity to abolish the office of Commander-in-Chief of
the army, then little more than a sinecure, and the
duties of which could be divided between the Secretary of War and the Adjutant General. It was desired, too, to save the President the difficulty of deciding between Generals Gaines and Scott.
The difficulty of President Tyler's position was
made greater by the numberless promises, real and
pretended, absolute and conditional, of General Harrison, brought forward by the office-hunters. Instances
occurred of men presenting themselves with so-called
promises, who never had anything from the good old




306         TYLER S ADMINISTRATION.
man but a nod of the head. Others came who were
totally unfit for the places sought. A dilapidated,
worn-out old man from Cincinnati, claimed the post
of first Assistant Postmaster General, insisting upon
the promise of General Harrison, and when refused,
went away in a rage, and denounced the administration. The course of the President seemed to give
general satisfaction. He had done just what was expected from his republican principles and associations.
He recognized the right of the people to approach
him under all circumstances and on every subject,
and gave to their requests the most respectful consideration.
The immense rush for office continued into the
summer. The city, too, was full of beautiful women,
representatives of every section of country. The
east garden of the capitol, on Wednesdays and Saturdays, was a charming spot. It had fine trees, walks
and clumps of shrubbery, with a small lakelet; and
parties resorted there for conversation and flirtation.
There might be seen the Russian ambassador, in something of a hurry, though the flag was still flying over
the Hall of Representatives; the noble looking Madame Le Blane, with her young and wealthy relative, Mrs. Hughson, from Kentucky, walking behind
her with a large retinue of disinterested admirers;'" the immortal Harry," in a straw hat, with a smile on
his cheek, and stopping to talk with his acquaintances
a minute at a time; Mrs. Calvin, one of the great reformers; the fashionable, literary and scientific Mr.
Robertell, and many others.
When a lady of the District was at the President's




SCENE IN THE GARDEN.          307
house, he praised the prospect from the garden window, observing:
"Madam, I delight in this window; it gives me a
view into Virginia."
"Would it not be well to extend your view, sir,
farther than Virginia?"
"Madam," replied the President, with a benignant
smile, "my view  extends over the whole United
States."
And c" if anything be an earnest of this " —said one,
"it is the charmingly republican system upon which
he and his family regulate their deportment."
Mrs. La Cloche commanded much attention in the
main alley of East Capitol garden, on one of the music nights. She was what Washington Irving called
"a fine, manly sort of a woman."
As a gentlemanly-looking person passed, a young
officer exclaimed; "Why am I like that man, who is
little, while I am large! Why, I am Owen the Tailor!"
At the President's house, in July, the night was
beautiful. The wide-spread plain was fringed with
carriages and spectators; the elevation before the wall
of the White House garden was similarly crested;
and upon the garden terrace overlooking it stood
well dressed multitudes of either sex. The artillery
wheeled about, in fine order, changing form and front
as if by magic at the bugle's note; firing first in one
direction, then in another, with precision and rapidity.
The President sat in the south portico of the White
House; his daughter and daughter-in-law had stationed
themselves on an elevation in the garden; Miss Tyler
with her bonnet off, blooming as Hebe; and both as




308        TYLER'S ADMINISTRATION.
truly delighted with the show and the fine sunset and
the gentle evening breeze, as the passer-by with their
amiable courtesy.
The Fourth of July passed much as usual everywhere; squibs and pop-guns and cracked bells, with
vapid orations, stupid toasts, and execrable speeches;
hot meats and cold wines; the customary laudation
of the nation, and the quantum of headaches that
follow unusual indulgence. There was a levee at
the White House, and the Sunday school children
marched through the walks of the capitol grounds;
Mr. Adams watching them with satisfaction and interest. At the Presidential mansion there was a commingling of all the central functionaries with citizens
of every class; the marine band in the hall playing
appropriate martial airs. The President stood near
the entrance of the elliptical saloon, supported by his
two sons, and two subordinate officers of the government, who introduced the citizens as they entered.
Farther on in the room, the daughter and daughter-inlaw of the President received the compliments of the
visitors. The deportment of Mr. Tyler was easy and
natural, yet sufficiently dignified, placing every one
at his ease. And nothing could surpass the quiet,
unaffected grace with which the ladies received and
acknowledged the courtesies of all who paid their
respects. The throng, comprising beautiful women,
grave senators, cabinet and foreign ministers, dashing
army and navy officers, office seekers, citizens and
loungers, was great from twelve to three. Between
five and six about forty gentlemen sat down to dinner with the President.




THE IRISH PORTER.            309
The appointment of General Scott as the new Commander-in-chief, disposed of his claims to the' Presidential succession. Placed at the head of a bureau
in the war department, secluded from the people, he
could hardly fail to subside from public view, even
with the interest produced by his recent meritorious
services on the frontier.
After the Fourth, it was decided that on Wednesdays the marine band should play at the President's
garden; on Saturdays, as before, at Capitol Hill. On
the Wednesday, accordingly, the band placed themselves under a clump of trees on the enclosed green,
between the President's garden and the war office.
The drive up to the porch of the White House was
full of carriages. People were congregating under
the'President's porch.  Martin Ranahan, the little
Irish porter, was as busy as if he had been at a shillelah-frolic in Ireland. When General Harrison came
to the White House, it was said that Ranahan addressed him with,
"Plaze yer honor-they say you're goin' to make a
clane swape. I'm the last Martin in this nest; must
I take wing?"
"No, Ranahan. They say'tis ill luck to drive the
house martins from where they build. Stay where
you are."
Hearing  one Smith, a schoolmaster, criticising
speeches as not classical enough, Ranahan reproved
him:-" When was there any good in the name of
Smith!.'Twas always an- Orange name, even in ould
Ireland, and by St. Pathrick, it has -never gained by
exportation. Criticise!'I only wish that Cicero and




310         TYLER'S ADMINISTRATION.
Demosthenes, and the whole list of them  dead ancients had been at the dinner; and if they wouldn't
have hid away their heads it would be only because
there was no Irish modesty left in'em."
When the storm threatened, President Tyler came
to the door, and invited the people to take shelter in
the house; handing in the little children and ladies,
and asking in the gentlemen. The sovereign people
seemed to put themselves in absolute possession of
the sovereign's habitation. Some of the ladies took off
their bonnets and were ensconced with their beaux in
the window seats. One asked where was Miss Tyler;
another where was Mrs. Robert Tyler, and enquiries
were made for her baby. This lady was endeared to
her native land by many claims; being connected on
her mother's side with some of the benefactors of the
republic, and on her father's with the most brilliant
recollections of our fine arts. "She herself at one
time had made a sacrifice to circumstances and to
filial piety, equal in loftiness of motive to the farfamed devotedness of the Grecian daughter" by appearing for a short time on the stage.
In her sudden elevation she preserved the simplicity
and directness of her character, and went through
her hospitalities with cheerful good feeling and impartiality. Her husband, under an unpretending and
diffident exterior, showed qualities of no common
order.
The weather cleared, and the people departed, and
then the storm came back, with thunder, lightning
and rain that drenched the metropolis.
On the Saturday the weather was charming; car



IN THE PRESIDENT'S GARDEN.      311
riages, horsemen and couples steamed up Pennsylvania avenue, and through the various western garden alleys on one side; and from all the four quarters
of Capitol Hill on the other. John C. Calhoun came
in smiling and happy with Mr. Charbon on his arm.
Miss Black came with a General in a carriage and
four; John Quincy Adams appeared with alert step
and animated countenance, conducting a young lady
whose society he seemed to enjoy, and she his; for
who could be insensible to the honor and delight of
conversing with the venerable and enlightened exPresident, now pleased to be a simple citizen among
those of whom a few years since he was more than
monarch!
The music meetings at the President's garden
seemed to gain the victory in popularity. Georgetown and Alexandria, the following Wednesday, sent
their-stores of beauty and fashion to swell the crowd
that poured into the enclosure between the entrance
to the White House and the war office; the green
once called "Lthe cow pasture!"  Nothing could be
seen but moving belles and beaux, and staring and
admiring wonderers. A pretty blonde was pointed
out as the sister of Madame de Bodisco, Miss Williams,
from Georgetown.
Benches were provided for the musicians. A fine
looking woman was noticed with the Postmaster
General; a widow of Baltimore. In a group on the
western terrace, without bonnets, was seen Miss
Tyler-" the young princess," as some called her,-a
good and gentle girl, with quick perceptions, lively,
well-educated and well-bred; full of Virginian warmth




312         TYLER'S ADMINISTRATION.
of heart, prepossessing in appearance and captivating
in manners. Her affectionate devotion to Mrs. Robert
Tyler's child was remarked. One lady saw her in a
carriage trying to hush the baby while waiting for
the mother to come out from some place where she
was calling. The child was said to have an extraordinary sensibility to music; her blue eyes would dilate and fill with fire, and her little feet would flutter
and dance on hearing it. Another lady, who bore the
family name, the wife of a relation, resided in the
District.
There was a Senator —one of the lights of the land
— walking and talking fiat gossip with a young girl;
illustrating the remark that wisdom may be wrapped
up in trifling. There were also the interesting stepdaughters of the Attorney General; —petite damsels,
somewhat below the average height, but taller than the
sprightly and lovely creatures advancing under the escort of William Cost Johnson and Mr. Rayner. Their
name was Bruce. The French ambassador, a finelooking man, was conspicuous; and Mrs. Bruce, promenading with Mr. Cushing of Massachusetts, while
people thought he ought to get a step lower in the
alphabet and take a Mrs. C. good-looking and agreeable as he was, and pleasing in social life as in political.
Butler King was observed, and the commanding presence of the wife of the Secretary of State was acknowledged.
Mrs. Daniel Webster was Miss Caroline Le Roy.
She was a native of New York, and married Webster
in 1829. They passed the winters in Washington;
their summers at Marshfield-their country-seat on




MRS. DANIEL WEBSTER.          313
the Massachusetts coast. Mrs. Webster was a helpmeet to her husband, both in domestic and public
affairs; reading to and for him, culling and arranging
useful facts and ideas, and assisting him in his extensive correspondence. While he was Secretary of
State, she was his efficient aid, and made his house
the center of a brilliant society, drawing around them
the finest spirits of the century, and many of high
repute.
After the music ended and the company had dispersed, the President and his family passed on to the
theater, where they had promised to attend Miss Monier's benefit. She had selected "'Money" for the
play, perhaps as a gentle hint to the people that the
government wanted some of that commodity! It was
the first successful evening she had had. The audience welcomed the entrance of the Chief Magistrate
with a burst of applause. Such a reception had not
occurred since the fever of Jackson's popularity was
at its height. It was spontaneous and hearty, and
was acknowledged with grace and dignity.
On the next Saturday the clouds had portended a
storm; but the sky cleared as the fashionables began
to gather around Capitol Hill. Mrs. Tyler and her
husband and infant daughter, and the Boz family were
noticed, and a true, warm-hearted major with his gentle
lady, "with the well instructed head and the Cinderella foot." There were more carriages than usual;
though the promenaders made no show comparable
with the hundreds who had filled the President's
grounds on Wednesday. The "classical" party of
the previous evening at the President's, was freely




314         TYLER'S ADMINISTRATION.
discussed. Such "droppings" from the candelabras
and chandeliers, visited by the breezes from the
open windows! "And that gave the assembly such
a classical look! All exhibited signs of having been
in Greece! Webster's coat was covered." c" And how
did the lady look who got such a shower of it upon
her adornments?"
"Look? never lovelier.  As Pierre says in Venice
Preserved:"'I could have hugged the greasy rogue; she pleased me."'
When one young gentleman looked forlorn, some
wag quoted Shakespeare to remind him that
" The sovereign'st thing on earth
Was'parmaceti for an inward bruise."
The puns brought to mind one by the mother of
Mrs. Robert Tyler, a lady famed for her wit. A wealthy
tallow-chandler prated in her presence of his travels
in Greece. After listening long and patiently, she
exclaimed, "Indeed, Sir, you must have found yourself very much at home there."
After this discomfiture front flaring candles, it was
agreed that the rooms ought to be lighted with gas,
on the new plan then under experiment in front of
the treasury.
Some one mentioned that the French minister had
complained to Wise the preceding night, of the new
duties suddenly imposed on French wines and silks,
and another spoke of having seen Mrs. Wise there.
"Then," said a third, "you met a woman of sterling
worth, and manners equally unostentatious and winning." "There was another conversation at the Presi



THE GEORGETOWN NUNNERY ACADEMY.  315
dent's party between Wise, Ball, Granger, and others,
about the Florida war, ending in a laugh and another
glass of champagne all round."
The south garden was the next scene of the musical reunion.  The ground was undulating, varied
with tree-topped knolls, around which the graveled
walks sweep gracefully. In the distance the sun
silvered the broad Potomac, and threw it into picturesque contrast with the dark green of the forestcovered amphitheater of hills upon the shores beyond. Glancing sails and steamers performed their
part in the view. The marine band was stationed on
the top of one knoll, surrounded by listeners; while
groups dotted all sides of the hill, and stood gossiping
at the base or perambulated all about it. Promenaders were passing through the trees and cresting
the knoll opposite. The President stood on the portico with his family some time, enjoying the view.
The talk was of the exhibition at the Georgetown
Visitation Nunnery Academy. It was a small but
tasteful exhibition-room.  There was a piano on a
raised platform, and three harps, with music stands.
Behind a table sat two nuns, heads of the establishment; at their left Father Matthew. The President
of the United States gave all the medals, prizes and
honors. Next to Mr. Tyler sat the Bishop of Maryland; behind them Father Ryder and others, and
several priests opposite. Miss Tyler assisted in arraying those pupils who received academic honors. Her
whole heart seemed absorbed in the scene. When
any one from Virginia was to receive an honor, she
blushed and appeared in a tremor; and when a prize
20




316         TYLER'S ADMINISTRATION
was announced for some one from Williamsburg, Virginia, she involuntarily half rose from her seat and
bent backl to catch the first glance of her triumphant
town-mate coming from below to mount the platform.
President Tyler invested a young lady of Martinsburg, Virginia, with the crown and gold medal for
excellence of conduct in the senior circle, and the
other recipients were adorned by Miss Tyler, whose
hands trembled with delight.
"As I quitted this garden scene," remarked a spectator, "it struck me that two things only could improve it-statues and fountains."
The storm began to threaten, and again the courteous President insisted on the pleasure-seekers
making use of his house. He was busier than any
of his servants, finding places for the ladies and
urging the bashful ones to come in. "Martin, see
that refreshments are handed round," was his hospitable order.
It was a grief to all to hear that Mrs. Robert
Tyler was to depart the next day; and her little
daughter had her voice in the general regret.
Some jokes were passed at one of these meetings,
on the accident of Mr. Webster's horse having run
away with him, kicked his buggy to pieces and
lodged the honorable Secretary in the capitol yard.
He was walking down the avenue five minutes afterwards, as unconcerned as if nothing had happened.
General Scott and the Boz family were at the reunion, and the fascinating Miss Chase-" the Trojan
Helen" —with Mr. Crittenden and an admired lady.
A by-stander observed that Mr. Crittenden had filled




THE VETO AND THE NEGROES.        317
a larger space in the public eye than any other man
in the cabinet except Webster. No man in the
Senate had been more conspicuous or more, useful.
"His position as the first law officer under the government ought to have made him one of the most
important men in the cabinet on a question like the
action of the cabinet on the bank bill."
Hugh Legare was pointed out, the accomplished
scholar, the elegant gentleman, and the experienced
statesman. It was thought he might be offered the
place, of Secretary of the Treasury in certain contingencies. Mrs. Ashley was remarked as a magnificent creature; but hardly surpassed Mrs. Calvin as
she stood on the edge of the green terrace. Two new
arrivals among the gentlemen were sons of the celebrated Alexander Hamilton.
On one occasion when the day was too much overcast for an assemblage on the green in front of the
portico of the southern garden, and only a few stragglers appeared, one of them observed to the President
that the weather had put its veto upon the music, and
mentioned that when the whirlwind that morning
tore away part of the market-house, and flung the
fragments into the air, exclamations were heard of
"There it comes! stand clear! there comes the veto!"
The negroes' comment was curious enough. "You
Cesar, what dem niggers waitin' dar for?" cried one
to another, as, at the hour for the arrival of the evening cars, a group of darkies were seen looking out
attentively. "Dem niggers? Dey be waitin for de
weto. Massa Webster, and Massa Bell, and Massa
Badger and Ewing, and Massa Granger, and ebber so




318        TYLER'S ADMINISTRATION.
many massas, all went to'Noplis dis mornin' right
arly, to fetch him from de man-ob-war whar he ben
kept chained up."
"Be he alive?"
"Live-yes-dat he be! Live and peert enough,
and bigger dan de big alliphant. Why, dey let him
out once to try him!"
"'My!"
"'Dey did, though-and didn't like him; so dey
put him up agin and kept him fast ebber since aboard
ship; and now-why, nigger, dey be pullin down
capitol wall to let him through a hole in de side;
cause dere be no place for him big enough and strong
enough only de rot-under! so iron gates is makin'
to fasten him in: and all de people will have to go
into de two houses arter dis by de two end doors, and
dey can look at de weto through de new railings as
dey go!"
": And notting to pay, Caesar!"
"Notting. Massa Tyler gibs de people dis show
free gratefish for notting, so as to keep friend wid um
and get um to make him next Pressumdit."
This confusion in Caesar's mind of the preparations
for the reception of Greenough's statue of Washington, the visit to the man-of-war at Annapolis, the universal talk of the veto-the various anticipations of
the President's purposes, and the diverse constructions
of his motives in relation to the veto, seemed to afford no unfair specimen of the political speculations
of many of the poor black's superiors.
The President's political situation became a singular one. He was surrounded by men whose sympa



UNINTERRUPTED SOCIAL GAYETY.      319
thies were with those who assailed him in the dead
of night, pouring out under his windows insults and
threats. Even Webster presided at banquets where
his political friends drank damnation to Mr. Tyler.
The rank and file of the party claiming to support
him, burned him in effigy, while their leaders cursed
him at festivals. He was surrounded by political
enemies. But the tide of social gayety was not interrupted by such disagreements.  The prediction
that most of the people would keep away from the
music at the southern garden, after the awful veto,
or would come with fierce looks and brimful of
fight, was not verified. The music was elevated on
a platform in the center of the lawn; on the river
road stood a vast collection of carriages. Two Cherokee damsels were seen walking with Governor Call
and Colonel Pendleton, the new charge to Chili. Mrs.
Semple, a daughter of President Tyler, and a most
intelligent and accomplished woman, with a noble,
intellectual face, was chatting with Mr. Butler King.
Another married daughter-Mrs. Jones-was on a
visit. Mr. Tyler had all his family about him.
The war on the President for refusing to give his
assent to the creation of a great national bank, continued, and effigy burnings and other disgraceful
scenes were enacted in various parts of the country.
There was a story about the President and Mr.
Clay at a party given by Mrs. Crittenden. She was
doing the honors with the perfect grace and dignity
that ever distinguished her, and about ten' o'clock,
when it was expected that Mr. Tyler would be rid of
his own visitors, Mr. Dawson and six others pro



320         TYLER S ADMINISTRATION.
ceeded to the White House to escort him to the
Attorney-General's. On his entrance Mr. Clay came
up, and, extending his hand, said, "Whisky, Mr.
President, or champagne?"
"Whisky," replied the President, and they went
together to the sideboard. The politicians whispered
that as "veto" began with V and whisky with a
letter beyond it, Mr. Clay had triumphed over the
President; all his measures would prevail and there
would be no more vetoes. It was even reported that
Mr. Clay was heard to quote from Shakespeare,-while
drinking to the President's health: "Conscience! it
mutinies in a man's bosom; it fills one full of obstacles; it beggars any man that keeps it; it is turned
out of all towns and'cities for a dangerous thing."
Of course no one vouched for the truth of that bit
of gossip.
Mrs. Bell gave a party in August, at which there
were some three hundred persons. The hostess was
a woman of fine presence, earnest in character, and
possessing great conversational eloquence. Miss Yeatman, her daughter, sparkled in diamonds; even her
brilliant adornment setting her off less than her amiable and unaffected manners. Miss Tyler was gentle,
guileless and charming as usual; and there was a
tiny Miss Bell, an infant a year old, with whom the
Secretary of the Navy glided into the room to a merry
tune played by the band.
Some gossip said Mr. Clay introduced Mrs. Bell as
"the lady of the Secretary of War" to a deaf stranger,
who, catching only the phrase c" the Secretary of War,"
opened his eyes in extreme wonderment.




MRS. BELL'S PARTY-NEW YEARS.       321
Another said that Bailie Peyton asked the President where was his old friend Wise.
" Oh, he is not invited to the cabinet parties," was
the reply. "He is no doubt at home now with his
amiable wife-almost as intelligent and effective a
politician as Wise himself."
The company broke up by twelve. The marine
band was stationed on the balcony terrace outside,
and the night was magnificently bright.
The cabinet was broken up in September by voluntary resignations.  Mr. Webster and Mr. Granger
were expected to remain, and it was thought to be
the purpose of Mr. Clay to wage a war of extermination against the President.
The last assemblage of the season took place at the
capitol gardens, toward the end of the extra session.
Mrs. Robert Tyler had spent some months at her
father's house in Bristol, to which she went in the
summer..
The following extract is from a letter dated January 1st, 1842:
"The first of January, eighteen hundred and fortytwo, is past, never to return; and I am nearly on the
point of going off with it. I never felt so tired in all
my life as I am this evening, standing up for three
hours, and shaking hands with, I don't know how
many thousand people-such big fists as some of the
people had, and such hearty shakes as they gave my
poor little hand too! One great hearty countryman
gave me a clutch and a shake I almost expired under,
but I could not help laughing when Fletcher Webster
whispered to me;' when taken to be well shaken!'




322         TYLER'S ADMINISTRATION.
"At half-past eleven we ladies took our station at
the upper end of the blue room, while father stood
in the center (we being the lesser lights) to receive
the foreign ministers and the cabinet, who made their
appearance half an hour before the crowd. This first
half hour was a very pleasant one, and passed rapidly away. The diplomatique corps were all present
but Mr. Fox, who sent an apology pleading indisposition. He is a complete bat, only making his appearance by candle-light.  The costumes of the foreign
ministers were very beautiful, and as each entered,
surrounded by his attaches, the scene was quite imposing. The Baron de Roenne is peculiarly soldierlike and noble in his appearance;- and there is a
simplicity and quietude in his whole bearing and
conversation, that to me is peculiarly agreeable. Mr.
Bodisco and his beautiful wife came later than the
rest. She is rather on the milk-maid order of beauty.
I can imagine her dropping a curtsy like the maid
in the song, with c my face is my fortune, sir, she said,'
and her face really has been her fortune as regards
a fine house, fine carriage, and fine clothes; and a
fine husband, too, for the matter of that, for nothing
could be finer than Mr. Bodisco's uniform. It is perfectly dazzling in its magnificence, his whole breast
glistening with orders.
"At twelve o'clock the crowd rushed in,-men,
women, and children,-a very orderly crowd though,
and nicely dressed. A little after the first rush of the'sovereign people,' came the ladies, and their respective escorts. I cannot say who I thought the prettiest
woman-perhaps it was Mrs. Potts, Mr. Rose's sister;




"4
tS
rd~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~.....








A NEW PRACTICE IN VISITS.       325
she is very lovely-looking. Of course Mr. Calhoun
and Mr. Webster were the most distinguished looking
men. Mr. Calhoun is more abstracted in ladies' society than Mr. Webster. Although Mr. Webster looks
so overwhelmingly sensible, he can talk the most
agreeable nonsense possible. I do like him very
much.'In virtue of my office' he always leads me
in to dinner —and often informs my ignorance of the.
nicest entremets to eat, the nicest wines to drink, &c.,
&c. Then he tells me charming anecdotes about his
visits to the great houses in England, just the gossiping things a woman loves to hear.".
In January, 1842, a new practice was adopted in
reference to social visits at the executive mansion.
Since Mr. Tyler's accession the drawing-room had been
open every evening for the reception of acquaintances
and persons having the privilege; it was now determined to receive visitors only on Thursday and Saturday evenings. The new year inaugurated a gay season in the court circles. The most brilliant entertainment was given by Madame de Bodisco, and the rank,
talent, fashion and beauty of the capital were invited.
Rumor announced the approaching marriage of Miss
Tyler with Mr. Waller, a young lawyer of Richmond;
and engagements and marriages formed the subject
of general conversation. The new Attorney-General
Mr. Legare, was said to be on the eve of abandoning
his fortress to gentle hands.
Mrs. Tyler wrote in January 1842:-.... " I very seldom go to parties, but, of course,
could not refuse Madame Bodisco's.invitation.- I-er
ball was expected to be the grand affair of the sea



326         TYLER'S ADMINISTRATION.
son. I confess myself disappointed: the crowd was
so dense that one could not appreciate either the
arrangement of the rooms or the dress of the ladies,
although they were all' en grand toilette.' The Baron
de Bodisco is a very attentive host, almost too much
so. He led me in to supper, and asked me how my'Empress of a baby' was. I suppose he thought of his
own little Emperor'Nicholas,' who, aged eight months,
was up at two o'clock at night, carried through the
rooms dressed in blue silk and white muslin.  The
fact is, I suspect the poor little fellow had no bed to
go to, for the whole house was thrown open, even to
Madame de Bodisco's bed-room. The bed was covered
with a magnificent green satin coverlet, pillow-cases
to match. Madame de Bodisco looked lovely, and
was magnificently attired in pink satin with lace
flounces, and such splendid diamonds-stomacher,
ear-rings, breast-pin, bracelets!  I never saw such
beautiful diamonds.-..."
(c_~ 1842.-I went to the Assembly last night,
inatronizing five young ladies-all' dressed in rosecolor-all so lovely too! Clementina Pleasantan and
Belle Stevenson the prettiest of all. Belle has the
most perfect face and figure I ever saw, but Miss
Pleasantan has a style and je ne sais quoi about her
that makes her the more attractive of the two. The
ball was a brilliant one, admirably lighted and not
crowded; the ladies all well dressed and showing to
advantage. I spent a delightful evening. As I declined dancing, I had the pleasure of talking to many
grave Senators, and, among the rest, had a long conversation with Mr. Southard. As we stood at the end




LORD MORPETH AT DINNER.        327
of the room-which is the old theater transformed
into a ball-room-he said:'On this very spot where
we stand, I saw the best acting that I ever witnessed.
I came in the theater and took my seat by John
Quincy Adams-and there were never two more delighted people. He said he had seen the same play
abroad-in France and England-he had seen John
Kemble and the great Talma in the part; Kean,
Cooke and Macready; but he had never seen it so admirably acted as then. I entirely agreed with him
in his admiration, though I was not so capable of
judging by comparison as he.' Mr. Southard here
paused. Though my heart told me to whom he alluded, I could not help asking him:'What was the
play and who the actor?''The play was Macbeth,
the performer Mr. Cooper.' I could not restrain the
tears which sprung to my eyes as I heard my dear
father so enthusiastically spoken of. I looked around
too, and thought that not only had papa's footsteps
trod those boards. I looked down at the velvet dress
of Mrs. Tyler, and thought of the one I wore there,
six years before, as Lady Randolph! when we struggled through a miserable engagement of a few rainy
nights!!!"....
"January 28, 1842.-I am afraid you poor Alabarmian plebeians will expire with envy when I tell
you that a real live English Lord was among the
guests at the President's house last week; Lord Morpeth now, Earl of Carlyle that is to be, with the
blood of all the Hiowards coursing through his noble veins! Yes, lie dined here! and had the honor
of handing me in to dinner and sat next me for three




328        TYLER'S ADMINISTRATION.
hours! I can't tell you what we talked about; I don't
think either of us made a remark worth remembering. He attacked our' Americanisms' (as most Englishmen do) especially the use of the word'lovely'
when applied to amiable women even if they were
shockingly ugly. I contended it was not used by
well-bred Americans, whereas' nice person' in England covered every degree of excellence in mind and
body, and was used by every one. He laughed, and
could not contradict me. He is not handsome, tout
an contraire! not distingue-looking; his face is red,
his hair is light, his manner awkward! Indeed, instead
of that' composure of aristocracy' which I anticipated
in a scion of one of the noblest English houses, I found
even a very fidgety manner. He seemed very amiable and unaffected though, and I felt entirely at my
ease talking nonsense to him.".
"January.-Lizzie Tyler was married last night.
She looked beautiful in her bridal dress and flowers,
blonde veil, &c. The wedding was a very quiet one.
The members of the cabinet, Mrs. Madison, Mrs. Bache,
Mrs. Wise, and Mrs. Commodore Warrington formed
the party, besides all the relations and friends from
Virginia. The whole house was thrown open, though,
the next night, and a most brilliant reception took
place. I was too unwell to be present."....
The daughters of the late Secretary of the Treasury had added to the list of vanquished among
beaux; and the witty daughter of Mr. Granger had
commenced a severe and dangerous cannonade. A
bevy of widows and maidens were assembled nightly
at Mrs. Peyton's and Miss Polk's; where also shone




JUDGES OF THE SUPREME COURT.    329
the still celebrated Mrs. Florida White, enchanting
the crowds allured by her loveliness. Lord Morpeth,
it seems, excited but little curiosity. "A nobleman
to make a sensation in Washington must be both
young and handsome."
The Supreme Court was a popular and instructive
place of resort to strangers. The nine judges in their
robes of office, presented a very imposing appearance,
apart from the associations connected with the most
exalted legal tribunal of the land. In the center sat
Chief Justice Taney, a tall, spare man, with a strikingly intellectual countenance; a jurist of profound
acquirements, large experience, endowments of the
highest order, great independence of character, and
of integrity unquestioned. On his right was Judge
Story of Massachusetts. He was inclined to democracy when young, but association with Judge Marshall and other great men of the court, soon made
him federal enough for all the purposes contemplated
in the organization of the Supreme Court.
On the left of the Chief Justice might be seen
Justice Thompson of New York, thin and spare almost
to emaciation, of great acumen, strictly legal in all his
tastes and pursuits, of quick apprehension, skillful in
weighing the arguments of counsel with unsurpassed
powers of discrimination, analysis and generalization.
Judge Thompson was a bright ornament of the illustrious tribunal whose decisions contributed so much
to give stability to the government by its luminous
expositions of the constitution.
Next to Judge Story might be seen Judge McLean
of Ohio, once Postmaster-General. He was a stately




330        TYLER'S ADMINISTRATION.
and fine-looking man, with clear head and strong mind.
Judge Baldwin was near Judge Thompson. Probably
no man had a more logical mind, understood a subject
more thoroughly, or mastered it with greater facility.
He had been a distinguished member of Congress.
Judge Wayne of Georgia was the handsomest man
on the bench. Near him was Judge McKinley of
Alabama, a'plain, unpretending, quiet gentleman,
whose thoughts were sound and sensible. There
remained Judge Catron of Tennessee, and Judge
Daniel of Virginia.
The most distinguished legal abilities in the land
were daily engaged in this court. Mr. Legare, the
Attorney-General, made his debut at this time. He
was a lawyer of eminence, as well as a scholar of extensive and varied acquirements.  His information
seemed to be affluent on every subject; his address
was always dignified and gentlemanly. The observation of genius enriched his mind with illustrations.
The fruits of the diligent reading of years, the experience of life, office and society, were at his command.
His taste was cultivated and his fluency was extraordinary. The day he made his first argument as Attorney-General, there were four Attorney-Geneials in the
room; Mr. Burien, Judge Taney, Mr. Gilpin and Mr.
Crittenden. This highly accomplished and learned
gentleman was accustomed to confess himself a vain
man; and he insisted that all persons of genius were
noted for vanity. He was very fond of ladies' society,
and was well fitted to please them, in spite of a slight
personal deformity, perceptible when he was standing,
that impaired the dignity of his appearance. South




EM3INENT LAWYERS.           331
Carolina had reason to be proud of him. He had a
sister, distinguished as a painter, who after her marriage went to reside in the West.
Among the lawyers prominent at this period in
Washington, were David R. Ogden, Daniel Lord, Jr.,
Mr. Wood of Newark, Mr. Wilde of Georgia, and General Wall, the late senator from New Jersey.
Some prominent men in society belonged to Philadelphia. Joseph R. Ingersoll, the son of Jared Ingersoll, was esteemed one of the ablest lawyers at the
bar. He and his brother, Charles Jared Ingersoll,
married sisters, the daughters of John Wilcocks.
Nicholas Biddle had married the daughter of John
Craig, and received a large fortune with her. Joseph
R. Chandler was the publisher and editor of the
"United States Gazette."  William Bayard Reed was
the son of Joseph Reed, and grandson of the distinguished Joseph Reed, who was president of the Supreme Executive Council of Pennsylvania, before its
organization as a State. It was he who made the
declaration in answer to a royal proposition: "I am
not worth purchasing; but, such as I am, the King of
Great Britain is not rich enough to do it."
Mr. Webster gave a ball and supper in honor of
Lord Morpeth, to which the whole town was invited.
A great social party was given by the congressional
"mess" boarding at Kennedy's in the avenue, at
which the amusing incident was reported of Mr.
Buchanan, the grave Senator from Pennsylvania, and
Mr. Crittenden, figuring in the same quadrille. To
those who had seen them in an argumentative contest
on the floor of the Senate, this saltatory one must




332         TYLER'S ADMINISTRATION.
have been very comical. Members from the various
sections of the Union, intending to domesticate with
their families for a session, arranged what was styled
a "mess."  These were generally formed of persons
professing the same politics, having an identity of interest, associations, feelings, &c. Sometimes friends
not in Congress were admitted into these coteries.
Few congressionals having the means or inclination
to form permanent establishments of their own, these
mess parties were frequently resorted to, to reciprocate the hospitalities of the stationary society. The
mess at Mrs. Kennedy's was composed of old and
young. Since the opening of the season at M.'de
Bodisco's, nothing comparable in comfort and elegance
had been exhibited, without, however, any parade of
illumination or tinsel livery. ~Mrs. Linn of Missouri,
and Mrs. Gaines, the distinguished wife of the General,
presided as matrons at the ceremonial. Mr. Buchanan
led in a graceful, brilliant woman, bewitching with
her arch expression and the turn of her head. Some
thought they might be discussing Clay's amendment
to the constitution; others, that the best- she could
propose would be an amendment to the gallant Pennsylvanian's confirmed bachelorship. "The King of
Alabama" drew near them. Buchanan and King
were called "the Siamese twins;" they ate, drank,
voted and visited together.  Then came up Tom
Allen, late of the Madisonian, with the wealthy lady
whom he married afterwards, Miss Russell from Missouri; a neat, plump, pretty little creature, wearing a
tiara and necklace of diamonds. The belle of Washington, Miss Dawson of Louisiana, dazzled all around




THE C"MESS" PARTY.           333
her like a fairy vision. There was no rush of admiration; all paid their homage in silence to her innocent and beaming loveliness.  Almost the entire
beau monde was present. A celebrated widow was
seen leaning on the arm of the Fabrician General.
She was pronounced like Josephine in stature, elegance and perfect finish. Her stately pride was blent
with winning grace; she had the majesty of Juno
with the simple naivete of childhood. Senators, cabinet and members acknowledged her intellect, wit and
genius. Around her stood Tallmadge, White, Evans,
Linn, and a host of admirers. Whenever she went
to a party, which was seldom, for she wore deep
mourning, the talent of the assemblage seemed clustered in a knot which she commanded for the evening.
This extraordinary woman was loved and esteemed
by all and envied by none; her beauty being praised
even by rivals, and her tact and judgment securing
her unenvied supremacy. Her life had been one of
vicissitude and trial. Not far distant was "the lazy
and eloquent Carolinian" —William C. Preston, with
his wife, one of the most delicate and polished of
women, with a rippling voice, and tender clinging air
of dependence on her "liege lord." Mrs. Gaines bore
her part with a kind wish to gratify all, and the enthusiasm of a noble and generous heart.
A story was told of the appearance of a new face
at the President's table, whom Mr. Tyler asked to
take wine with him, but who preferred brandy and
water. The stranger was discovered to be a sturdy
butcher from, Wilmington, Delaware, who had presented a noble sirloin of beef, and the finest mutton
21




334        TYLER'S ADMINISTRATION.
in the world, to the Chief Magistrate, and had been
honored with an invitation. On his departure he
shook; the President heartily by the hand, exclaiming,
"Sir, I've heard of republican Presidents, but I never
saw one till I saw John Tyler. You've made me feel
as if I was in my own house; and when I get back to
Delaware I shall tell my neighbors that I, a plain man
of the people, have been received by the Chief Magistrate in the house provided by the people, with as
much hospitality and kindness as if I had been the
most distinguished man in the country."  This feeling
of the.butcher was a prevailing one among the middle classes.
The last Presidential levee of the season was
crowded and unusually brilliant. "Clay Whigs and
Van Buren Locofocos, and Tyler Americans" were
whirled together in the throng. A new arrangement
was the announcement of each visitor's name on entering; and many a laugh was raised at the mistakes.
One gentleman found himself suddenly dignified with
the handle of " Honorable;" a foreign minister or two
was transferred from his own court to another; and
maidens and bachelors found themselves unexpectedly coupled and'given- to each other. Mrs. Van
Ness, with her husband, the late ambassador'to Spain,
was very much admired. The President gave an unostentatious; but elegant dinner-party on the anniversary of his first' official introduction to Washington.
The members of.'the cabinet and their wives were
present, with ex-President Adams and the nearest
connections of two other ex-Presidents, and one or
two foreign ambassadors; also Mrs. Madison and the




DICKENS AT THE WHITE HOUSE.                          335
daughter of Mr. Monroe, Mrs. Gouverneur, and Madame de Bodisco with her husband.
It had been wisely determined to give Mr. Charles
Dickens, on his arrival, a plain reception, and commit
no  remarkable  act of folly.   Mrs. Tyler wrote  in
March, 1842: —"I cannot tell you anything about
Boz that you have not seen in the papers. I was determined I would see him when he came, and I did,
in spite of my orders to remain in my room for the
next two months. I have seen him twice; once in
the morning when I had him "all to myself," and then
again at the levee in the evening.* He is not at all
romantic looking, rather thick set; his face of course
most intelligent and bright-but his dress does not
suit me; he wears rather too much jewelry, and is
thoroughly English in his appearance, and not the
best English. At the levee he was accompanied by
* The correspondent of the " New York Herald" gave the following account:
" It was intended that the levees should close at the accustomed time; but,
probably, the nearly simultaneous arrival of the two great literary lions, Washington Irving and Boz, at our national menagerie, may have caused a new
arrangement. Tuesday, the 15th, happening to offer the only evening not preoccupied at the White House, it was thought expedient to give the numerous
strangers in town another treat, and as a part of it, the opportunity of seeing
Irving and Dickens, and of seeing too, that the President is incapable of
being behind the people in due honors to genius.
"When it was understood that there would be a levee, and that Irving and
Dickens would both be there, the rush was tremendous. It was as much as
the police officers could do to keep the passages open. Even the circle usually
left open around the Chief Magistrate was narrowed to almost nothing by the
pressure. It was computed that the east room alone contained upwards of
three thousand persons.
"There was one point of interest. Washington Irving and the lady who
presided on this occasion with surpassing courteousness and grace-M-rs.
Robert Tyler. Irving, now grown'more fat than bard beseems,' is yet still
distinguished by that glow of genius, and humor in his eye, and smile and
utterance which made him the adored of the New York world of fashion.
Washington Irving is at the executive mansion, not now as Washington




336              TYLER'S  ADMINISTRATION.
his wife, quite a sweet-looking plump woman, tastefully dressed though, and more English looking than
Boz  himself.   Poor  fellow!   He  seemed   horribly
bored by the crowd passing round him. What think
you? He and Washington Irving were both speaking
to me at the same time! I am charmed with Washington Irving. He took me in to the dinner which
father gave him, and he talked to me of mamma all
the time, telling me a great many anecdotes of grandma's house and surroundings in old times.....   The
more distinguished well-bred and sensible people are,
the more perfectly unembarrassed and at home I feel
with them. Query: Does this emanate from their
good breeding and intellect, or, from my own superior
nature  finding  its affinity  in  these  sort of people?
Que pensez vous?"
Irving, but as the Ambassador to Spain. Who is that lady receiving such
homage from the new Ambassador? She is a player's daughter-but she is
a President's daughter-and she is welcoming, from her elevation, in her
mother's friend of by-gone years, the Ambassador newly created by her father.
"I ask-ought there not to be almost as much interest for an American in
these associations, as in the presence of Boz? Yet nothing could surpass the
curiosity to see the great author from England.' Where is he? How does
he look' Such were the questions on every side. A few had seen himand, not a few were seeking to see him, and seeking in vain.'Why don't
they set him on a tray, and carry him over their heads?' cried some. Others,
being told he was a short man, and was in a dense throng, grouped at a distance,
jumped up and down, hoping, while up, to catch a glimpse, but all to no purpose. Boz retired after an hour's exhibition, bequeathing all the unused
literary enthusiasm to be poured on Washington Irving."




XII.
TYLER'S ADMINISTRATION.
Clay's Adieu to the Senate-Lord Ashburton's Arrival-Men prominent
in the Court Circle-Mrs. Robert Tyler's Letter after the Death of
her Mother-in-Law-Seven Thousand at the New Year's Levee, 1843
-Webster's Reception-Receptions of Mr. Adams and Mrs. Tayloe
-Mrs. Tyler's amusing Description of her Party and Supper given
to Marshal Bertrand-a Juvenile Fancy Ball at the White House" The Washington Assemblies " organized-Ladies most admiredThe new British Minister-Ole' Bull —Receptions by the Secretaries
-Mrs. Gouverneur's splendid Party —Self-styled Leaders who were
Parvenues-Brilliant Entertainments-General McDuffie-Captain
Stockton-Madame Pageot's Party, and Disappointment of the Expectations of a Parisian Supper-The Excursion on board "the
Princeton "-Terrible Catastrophe-Mrs. Madison's Party in MayThe Marriage of President Tyler to Miss Gardiner-Memoir of the
Bride —Mr. Pakenham's Entertainment-The new President electGrand Ball given by Mrs. John Tyler-Colonel and Mrs. Tuley of
Virginia.
THE last day of Mr. Clay's political existence was
marked by his adieu to the Senate, after which he
was to return to his home in Kentucky. So elevated
had been his position, so decided his political course,
and so marked the points in his character, that for
more  than  thirty  years almost every  man  in  the
country had been his devoted friend or his bitter
enemy. His place in the Senate was immediately
filled  by  Mr. Crittenden.   Mr. Clay's  valedictory
was listened to by a dense crowd of citizens and la



338         TYLER'S ADMINISTRATION.
dies. Mr. Calhoun came to him when it was concluded, and bade him an affectionate farewell.
Lord Ashburton, the new British minister, came
early in April. He was nearly six feet in heighta stout man, pale, but active in movement, with a
mild and pleasing expression of countenance.  He
immediately proceeded to a house hired and prepared for him on President Square, near Mr. Webster's. Three secretaries and five servants comprised
his retinue. A splendid dinner was in waiting for
him. The age of his lordship was sixty-five; but he
was a finer looking man than Lord Morpeth. According to the etiquette between minister and ambassador, he was to call on the morrow upon Mr. Fox,
who would present him to the Secretary of State.
It was not supposed that Mr. Fox was to be suspended. The warm spring weather brought on renewed gayeties. The wife of the Secretary of State
held her levee on Tuesdays, the visiting-day of the
week for the families of the cabinet. A grand dinner
and a ball were in prospect, to honor the great retiring orator, Mr. Clay. The fashionables expected some
agreeable entertainments from Lord Ashburton. This
nobleman came charged with full powers to settle,
among other points, the boundary question on a principle of compromise. IHe brought his own carriage
and horses and a great quantity of luggage; it was
therefore supposed he intended a long residence.
Horace Everett, of Vermont, a whig, one of the
fathers of the House of Representatives, entered Congress in 1829, and for twelve years had been one of
the most assiduous members. He was then about




EMINENT STATESMEN.            339
fifty, of medium height, retiring in manners, and enjoyed the confidence of all his constituents. Dixon
H. Lewis, a democrat, was the largest man in the
House of Representatives, and weighed over four hundred pounds. He had first taken his seat in 1829.
He was a good speaker, and very popular. At this
time he was about forty. Thomas Hart Benton, of
Missouri, was democratic. He had been a member
of the Senate since 1821, and was the oldest in service in that body after Mr. King. Ie was characterized as the most indefatigable and persevering of men
in any matter he undertook. "Solitary and alone, I
put this ball in motion," was the opening of his speech
on the famous expunging resolution, which he carried
through after a struggle of several sessions. In debate he was clear and forcible, always armed with statistics and dates, but stormy and overbearing; and in
a passion he became furious. In figure he was portly
and robust, and when wrapped in his Spanish cloak,
he stepped with the air of a tribune. Kind and af
fectionate in the domestic circle, he educated his own
children till after a certain age. At this time he was
not much over fifty. James G. McKay, of North
Carolina, had been a member since 1831. He was
plain in appearance, but constant in his attention to
duty.  George N. Briggs, of Massachusetts, was
elected in 1831. He was a whig, and an attentive
and efficient member. James Buchanan had been a
prominent and distinguished member of the Senate
for seven years. He came into Congress in 1821, in
the lower house, of which he remained an active and
influential member till 1831. In 1833 he was ap



340         TYLER'S ADMINISTRATION.
pointed minister to Russia, and on his return two years
later was elected to the Senate. He had much weight
and influence, and for the preceding twelve years had
been identified with the Jackson and Van Buren dynasties, though in Tyler's time he ranked among the
opposition. Ile was strict in his party devotion, but
never ultra in his doctrines. In figure and address
he was aristocratic-looking, with the blandest and
most polished manners; specious in debate and fairspoken, inclined.to be witty, and with much dignity
of character. Ile was "a stricken bachelor," and always wore a white cravat.
An accomplished New York lady wrote from Washington, June 7, 1842:
"This morning paid a visit to Mrs. Tyler and Mrs.
Madison. The latter is a delightful old lady, so amiable, with such fine manners. Mrs. Robert Tyler is
also very pleasing and amiable. Mr. Roosevelt and
I dined with L6rd Ashburton to-day. The dinner was
very pleasant.  Our company consisted of Mr. and
Mrs. Berton, Mr. and Mrs. Rhett, Dr. Linn, Mr. Conrad, Mr. White (Speaker of the House), Mr. Fillmore,
General Jones, Mr. Finis, General Van Ness and Mr.
Poinsett. The entertainment was simple and elegant,
and passed off very pleasantly, Lord Ashburton has
three secretaries."
June 22d. —" Mrs. Madison sent me this afternoon
an album of her niece, Miss Payne, to look at. I found
a very pretty piece of poetry written by Mr. Adams:'To Miss Anna Payne.'
"Last evening I went to the President's grounds
with Mr. Roosevelt. Mr. Ingersoll joined us; we met




A DEATHI IN THIE PALACE.        341
a number of acquaintances there; Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence of Boston, Mr. and Mrs. Webster, Senator Bates,
Mrs. Middleton, &c."
After the death of Mrs. John Tyler, Mrs. Robert
Tyler wrote in October, 1842: —"As you know, we
were summoned from Brooklyn by mother's last illness. We started immediately, but only arrived here
after her death, and even after the funeral service
had been performed. Nothing can exceed the loneliness of this large and gloomy mansion-hung with
black-its walls echoing only sighs and groans; of
course their mother's death was a most agonizing
blow to the whole family. My poor husband suffered
dreadfully when he was told that mother's eyes were
constantly turned to the door watching for him. He
had left Washington to bring me and the children at
her request. She was very fond of me, and I loved
her dearly. She had everything about her to awaken
love; she was beautiful to the eye even in her illhealth; her complexion was as clear as an infant's, her
figure perfect, and her hands and feet were the most
delicate I ever saw. She was refined and gentle in
everything she said and did; and, above all, a pure
and spotless Christian. Indeed she was just my beau
ideal of a perfect gentlewoman. The devotion of
father and her sons to her was affecting; I do not
think I ever saw her enter the room, where they were
assembled, that they did not all three spring up, to
lead her to a chair, to arrange her footstool, and caress and pet her.".
The return of General Cass from his mission to
France, and the important associations connected with




342         TYLER'S ADMINISTRATION.
his name, excited a great sensation in political circles.
His history embraced the record of numerous patriotic
deeds during the war of 1812,- and he occupied a
larger share of public attention as the question of the
next Presidency began to be agitated. On the first
day of January, 1843, the President's house was thrown
open for visitors; Mr. Webster, M. de Bodisco, General Cass, John C. Calhoun, Mr. Adams, Mr Roosevelt
and other distinguished citizens receiving the company. General Cass had received the visits and
cordial greeting of almost all the members of Congress, and was very happy with his charming family.
Seven thousand were guessed to be present. Among
them were seen Senators Tallmadge, Choate, Rives,
Evans, Merrick, Bates, Carr, Calhoun, Sevier, King,
Allen, Linn, Conrad, Woodbridge, Porter, Young, &c.
Of the House of Representatives the most conspicuous were Messrs. Pickens and Morgan, General Dawson, General Ward, Colonel Sumter of South Carolina,
Frank Granger, Mr. Roosevelt, John McKeon, Governor Pope, Albert Smith, Allen of Maine, John C.
Clark, Judge Edwards, Gwinn and Thompson of Mississippi, &c. Among the charming women present were
Mrs. Bodisco, Mrs. Fletcher Webster, Mrs. J. J. Roosevelt, Mrs. Wickliffe, Mrs. Greenough, the Misses Dawson, Gales, Granger, Wickliffe, Elizabeth Blair, Miss
Woodbury,-Bayard, Mason of Alexandria, the accomplished daughters of Thomas L. Smith, &c. The arrangements were admirable. Robert Tyler and his
lovely and accomplished wife stood by the President
to receive their friends, and Mrs. William Tyler was
the object of universal admiration. John C. Calhoun




DISTINGUISHED RECEPTIONS.        343
stood in the center of the east room, with many lovely
women around him. General Cass held a levee of
intellectual men and beautiful women. Mr. Webster's
house was also opened to a brilliant crowd. Here
were Daniel "the godlike man," General Cass and
General Scott, and other congenial spirits. Mrs.
Webster did the honors; and the star of attraction
was Mrs. Fletcher Webster, who was a woman of
surpassing loveliness, as was her sister Mrs. Page.
Mr. Roosevelt, who resided in Mrs. Madison's house,
received visitors, to whom the beautiful and accomplished. Mrs. Roosevelt did the honors "in the true
old Knickerbocker style, like a worthy descendant of
the honored family of Van Ness."  Her guests were
numerous and distinguished, and her table was said to
be the best of the day.
A most intellectual treat was met with at the
house of John Quincy Adams. The "old man eloquent" fired up with the vigor of youth. Leading
men of all parties, and every man of distinction in
the city, -called to pay their respects.  Mrs. John
Adams, and his lovely grand-daughter, assisted in the
reception of guests. Mrs. Tayloe also threw open her
splendid mansion, Miss Custis assisting Mrs. Tayloe
to preside. Hon. Aspbury Dickens gave an entertainment; also Major Thomas L. Smith, and Mr. Larned of the Treasury department. Senator Tallmadge
is said to have declared, on his honor as a gentleman,
that "the eggnog at this house was superior to any
he had ever tasted."
Afterwards Mrs. Tyler wrote to her sister in 1843:
"You say you hear Bertrand is to come to this




-344       TYLER'S ADMINISTRATION.
country! My dear, he has come! come, seen and
conquered —he has come, seen me, and been conquered! The Marshal arrived during the President's absence in Virginia, and the whole duty of
entertaining him devolved upon me! To be sure,
Mr. Tyler is here; but he is only the Prince Consort, you know. He arrived on Saturday, and sent
the same evening to ask if I would receive him,
and at what hour he should call. I appointed eight
o'clock, it being then past seven.  I immediately
sent for the officers of the cabinet, and was surrounded by them when the old hero arrived, accompanied by his suite. He bowed to the very
ground, and I curtsied quite as low. I cannot convey to you an idea of how charmingly I received
him. The hour he remained he spent in complimenting me in French and English, rather jumbled together, while I returned his compliments in the same
eccentric mixture of languages. At last, after a
flourishing speech, squeezing my hand, with a second
low bow over it, he departed, followed by his suite,
each first making a profound obeisance. I could not resist the impulse, and, as the last mustachioed Frenchman left the room, I turned a pirouette upon one foot
on the rug, and then, dropping a low curtsey, said:'I beg the cabinet's pardon.' Whereat Mr. Tyler
was exceeding wrathy, though every one else said it
was the'sweetest thing' I had done the whole evening. The Marshal was to leave the next morning
(Sunday),'but I sent him an invitation for Monday
evening. You should see the note of acceptance he
wrote (I have it in my book of autographs): he




MRS. TYLER'S PARTY TO BERTRAND.   345'had intended leaving;''my gracieuse invitation
was not to be resisted. I had but a short time in
which to effect a great deal, but my usual administrative powers were called into action, and I succeeded
in doing all I wished to do. I sent out two hundred
invitations to the'creme de la creme' of Washington
society.
"At eight o'clock my party was assembled, formed
of the very prettiest girls, and nicest people I could
collect. All the officers of the army and navy appeared in their uniforms. The diplomatique corps in
full court costume. I stood at the head of the blue
center room under the window. As the Marshal arrived and walked through the hall, the band struck
up the'Marseilles Hymn.' The guests fell back on
either side as he entered the room, leaving a broad
path for Bertrand to advance to where Josephine-Imean, to where I stood surrounded by the cabinet.
To describe the reverences he made, followed by his
son and each of his suite in turn, would be vain! I
returned them with grandma's old-fashioned curtsies,
such as must have existed in the days of the Empire.
Soon after his arrival the quadrilles commenced. I
only danced twice. Once, to open the ball, with
Count Bertrand, the Marshal's son, and again, at his
request, with his aid-de-camp: two young Frenchmen
composed of full pantaloons and mustachios.  For
the rest of the evening my guests demanded my attention. No party ever went off better.
"Father, with his usual kindness, had given me a
carte-blanche before he left, and my supper was
splendid, (it is so easy to entertain at other people's




346        TYLER'S ADMINISTRATION.
expense.) The prettiest things on the table were
two pyramids composed of pomegranates with the
skins peeled off, and Malaga grapes. They looked
like rubies and emeralds. I had quantities of vases
of natural flowers down the table, and festoons of
grapes going from vase to vase the whole length of
the table, which, of course, was covered with everything possible in the way of jellies, ices, creams, &c.,
&c., and quantities of the most beautiful French bonbons. Nothing was on the long principal table but
things of the most aerial, glittering description. Meats
were all banished to the side table..... Altogether
every thing was as plentiful and brilliant as I could
make it, and I personally directed everything myself.
As the Marshal led me in to supper, he seemed completely overcome, and putting his hand upon his
heart, said:'Oh, Madame, all zis for me?' The
only contretemps that occurred was, that I gave
him with a smile, a most splendid looking French
sugar plum  without observing the picture on it,
which I afterward discovered, to my horror, to be
that of an ass!-I hope the Marshal did not think it
personal! The old gentleman did not leave until all
the guests had departed, and then made me a long
speech of adieu, saying at the end:'I sink vous 9tes
charmante, Madame; I sink yo2u are very good woman,
and all your people must lof you. Adieu, Madame,
I shall nevare forget you!  Then saluting my hand
in the most chivalrous, French, respectful, delicious
manner, he departed, and left me alone in my glory.
I looked very well-for.me! I was dressed in a rosecolored satin, trimmed with blonde lace and flowers,




CHILDREN S PARTY AT THE WHITE HOUSE. 347
a charming little head-dress of white bugles. By'the
way bugles are all the rage! Are you not tired of
all this egotism?"
A juvenile fancy ball was given by Mrs. Robert
Tyler on the third birthday of her daughter. The
child was dressed as a fairy with silver wand, gossamer wings, and a diamond star upon her forehead,
holding the hand of her young mother while she received, her guests. The daughter of the Mexican
Minister, a very little girl, represented a princess of
her own country in embroidered satin and one blaze
of magnificent diamonds. A son of the Schemerhorn
family of New York, appeared as a Greek boy-with
the most elaborate and perfect costume in the room.
Little Miss Cutts, afterwards Mrs. Senator Douglas,
also graced the occasion, giving promise of the intelligence and beauty which in later years led captive
the great statesman of the West. The boys and girls
of the famous Henry A. Wise moved upon the scene,
the youngest in the arms of its sweet mother, formerly Miss Sergeant, of Philadelphia.  Also some
younger scions of Mr. Wickliffe's family, the then
Postmaster-General; the beautiful children of Mrs.
D'Arguiz and the Spanish Minister, &c. In fact the
diplomatique corps, the Cabinet, Senate, Supreme
Court, House of Representatives and the principal
cities of the Union, were represented by the lovely
little ones assembled. But the most noticeable feature
of the evening was the supper table, where, opposite
the little hostess of three years, sat the venerable
Mrs. Madison, the only invited guest of adult years
admitted to the table, while the ladies of the family




348        TYLER'S ADMINISTRATION.
attended to the children's wants and distributed the
gifts from branches of the brilliant Christmas tree
which adorned the center of the well laden board.
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Tyler suffered greatly in the
late war, and the lady described her painful experiences in eloquent letters to her relatives. If published, they would form a most interesting addition to
the literature of that period. They now' reside in
Alabama.
Besides the numerous private entertainments, a
club of resident gentlemen, composed of the first
class, arranged an annual set of parties, under the
title of "The Washington Assemblies," to which all
were invited who had the entree to fashionable circles. The opening one took place in January. There
was the inevitable M. de Bodisco, with his dignified
air; and near him, with petitmaitre manners, might
be seen the Spanish envoy extraordinary. A squatty
figure, with high cheek bones, long black hair and wellspread forehead, was Mr. Almonte, the new Mexican
Ambassador.  There were Bayard and Huntington,
fresh from a warm debate, and there was the Colossus
in mind-Daniel Webster-among the thoughtless;
and there was a well-dressed elegant person, talking
with the last American minister to Spain; the first
delegate from East Florida, and a distinguished officer
in its Indian wars —General Hernandez. A tall young
man, in brown and black, with simple white vesting,
was young Harvey from South Carolina; he had an
elastic step and a haughty mien, and conversed well.
A noble beauty was Mrs. Van Ness of Spanish birth;
her speaking and eloquent eyes caused her to share




REIGNING BELLES.            349
the admiration with the majestic and queenly Mrs.
Webster. Leaning on the arm of the Mexican minister was "the far and wide celebrated widow," Mrs.
White of New York. Not only peerlessly beautiful,
she had a warm and feeling heart. Her life had been
checkered for one so young; but she wore no mark
of sorrow, nor was there a line of grief in that face of
sunshine. With thousands at her feet, she had not
the bearing of a conqueror. The stately girl opposite
Mr. Waldron of the navy, was the celebrated Miss
Gardiner of New York. Sparkling and attractive without affectation, she had a high and daring spirit, and
had been much admired in Parisian circles. Next to
her, prattling with innocent naiyete', was her younger
sister, and close to her a Southern belle, Miss Lawson
of Louisiana, all vivacity and life, with wit that gathered a crowd about her. Alexandria's most beautiful
flower, Miss Bryant, was conspicuous and Mrs. Stanley, a whole-souled and fearless woman.
As March approached, squalls were anticipated in
the political horizon which would stir the social atmosphere. The continuance of Mr. Webster in the
cabinet, in spite of the opposition of the whigs or
the democrats, caused a disturbed state of things.
Tyler, with his veto in one hand and his spoils in the
other, had demolished and destroyed the expectations
of the whigs during the last two years. The Calhoun
men were in high spirits, feeling sure that Mr. Calhoun would get the nomination at the Convention in
1844. He was in capital health and spirits, while
McDuffie's health had greatly improved. The winter,
so far, had been rather dull. The only parties worth
22




350         TYLER'S ADMINISTRATION.
mentioning had been given by Mr. Webster, Mr. Wickliffe and Lieutenant Kearney. The gossip of society
announced that Hon. Caleb Cushing would shortly
lead to the altar a beautiful, intellectual and wealthy
lady-a Roman Catholic-from Baltimore. Another
rumor was faintly heard — of the President's marriage being anticipated. A little later in March, exPresident Van Buren was at Albany, preparing the
machinery for the next election, John Van Buren
with him. Henry Clay was in Ashland, after a visit
to New Orleans.  General Cass was in his home at
Detroit, where he had been received with great eclat.
John C. Calhoun was in Charleston, South Carolina,
said to be also preparing for the next Presidency.
Daniel Webster had not yet left the cabinet, but it
was supposed he would soon go to England as minister in place of Edward Everett, who was destined to
go to China. In December, Pakenham was the newly
appointed minister from the court of St. James, in
place of Mr. Fox. His special mission was to settle
the Oregon question.
At the close of this year, Ol Bull, the simpleminded, the warm-hearted, the enthusiastic' child of
nature, was the lion of Washington. He was said at
the time to be about thirty-three. He was broadshouldered, with a remarkably full, prominent and
expansive chest. In conversation he exhibited occasional outbreaks of good humored, nervous excitability; and he often tapped his head with his fingers,
as though he felt a consuming fire within. "No man,"
he said, "can do any ting in dis world widout entusiasin; he must'ave de mania; people vill tink he




A NEW FEATURE AT THE WHITE HOUSE.  351
ish mad; he must trow his whole soul into his business, or else he can't excel."
At the next New Year's day it was declared that
Pennsylvania avenue never before witnessed so much
joy, so much dress, so much beauty, so much gallantry,
so much fashion, so much intelligence. The grand
feature of the day was the President's levee. Higher
than all the rest could be seen the waving plume of
General Scott, rivalled only by the towering height of
long John Wentworth, member from Illinois. Dixon
H. Lewis ploughed through the mass like a seventyfour well rigged; diminutives following in his wake.
All the secretaries of departments were "at home,"
and Mrs. Madison, too, with a pretty bouquet in her
hand.  John Quincy Adams also threw  open his
house. The privilege of the floor of the House was
granted by vote of Congress to Mrs. Madison.
The exciting scenes in Congress, and the struggle
of political parties, occupied public attention to the
overshadowing of social matters. The fashionable
season opened about the middle of January with the
President's levee. A wholly new feature was introduced to the delight of the guests-dancing.  A
noted event in the fashionable world was the ball and
supper given by Mr. Gouverneur, late postmaster of
New York. Mrs. Robert Tyler had gone to Virginia;
but the White House had a fair representative in the
President's niece. In the little world of Washington,
the New York variety of equipage was equalled.
Now would dash by the beautiful low Parisian carriage of the French minister; the servants in drab
and silver, followed by the carriage of some patrician




352         TYLER S ADMINISTRATION.
Virginian, driven by an old negro in battered hat and
torn coat, the harness mended with ropes, the leather
curtains shrunk and flying in the wind. Anon came
along a provincial dandy on a prancing big-headed
horse whose sides the rider lacerated with his long
spurs, and by checking him with the curb forced him
to go sideways, so that the most prominent objects
were the horse's long tail and the rider's large nose,
his military saddle denoting that some of his ancestors were in the army. Then came the handsome
carriage and blood horses of a member from New
Jersey; the two colored servants in neat plain clothes,
respectable and grave in their appearance. Now,
walking briskly along, came the President's private
secretary, John Tyler, Jr.; the handsomest man in
Washington. He was accustomed to carry the Presidents messages to the Senate and the House.
Yet even in this kingdom of fashion there were
fine ladies, self-styled leaders of the ton, who considered themselves too exclusive to visit the family
of "C that honest, courteous gentleman, the President,"
and who boasted that they had never been inside the
White House since the death of General Harrison.
One of these high dames, the moment it was announced that the President would hold his first levee,
issued invitations. for a supper-party the same evening, inviting those she regarded as belonging to the
first set, and intimating that their non-attendance
would be followed by expulsion from the coterie.
This lady who tried to put a slight on the family of
the Chief Magistrate was no scion of " the first families in Virginia, born on the banks of the Potomac




EQUIPAGES AND PARTIES.          353
before the Revolution, in a gubernatorial mansion of
the days of George the Second, situated in the center
of an estate of a thousand acres, with five hundred
slaves to tremble at her nod."  Her husband was a
printer, and for some thirty years his family had lived
on the patronage of the government. "It was but
the other day that the Calvert family, the lineal descendants of one of the lord proprietors of Maryland,
in their old-fashioned chariot and four roan horses,
drove ten miles over a very bad road, to pay their
respects on New Year's day to the Chief Magistrate."
Three of the most respected navy officers-Commodores Stewart, Shubrick and Bolton-were at this
time mingling in the social circles of the capital.
Mrs. Wickliffe, the wife of the Postmaster-General,
gave her first party for the seas6n in January. Misses
Mary, Margaret and Nancy Wickliffe assisted in the
reception of the company in the most charming manner. The wife of the Mayor, Mrs. Seaton, followed
with a brilliant ball and supper; and Senator Rives
gave a select dinner party on Saturday. The ladies
of Washington were devotedly attentive to Mrs. Rives.
After the first " Washington assembly," Mrs. Richard S. Coxe gave a splendid party. She was the wife
of an eloquent and learned lawyer, and the daughter
of the eminent merchant and worthy man, John G.
Warren of New York. A new topic of curiosity and
excitement were the movements of Captain Stockton,
who was to make some grand exhibitions of his corvette sloop of war " Princeton." Mr. McDuffie at this
time made his second speech on the tariff He was
regarded as "a second Calhoun, and in his particular




354         TYLER S ADMINISTRATION.
way the greatest, ablest, most eloquent, most comprehensive statesman in either house of Congress. All
the rest are pigmies to this intellectual giant."  He
was the boast and pride of South Carolina.
Captain Stockton made his first appearance at the
President's levee, and was attended by a crowd wherever he moved; being obliged again and again to recount the exploits of the c"Princeton" in coming up
through the ice of the Potomac. The astonishment
she created among the inhabitants on the banks of
the river, is not easily conceived; as they beheld a
fairy phantom ship, without a patch of sail spread upon her spars, or a living soul upon her decks, without
the slightest evidence of steam, fire, light, or life on
board, still ploughing her onward way through. the
immense thickness of ice; ripping, tearing, breaking,
crushing, with irresistible power! The President and
suite-a private party-were to visit her the next
day.
On the 8th February Madame Pageot, the wife of
the French minister, entertained her friends. Lemonade and sponge cake were handed about, but sparingly
tasted; for whispers of a "Parisian supper" " patds
perigord," &c., were heard faintly; and the thermometer was below freezing point. About twelve, one of
the elder ladies took the arm of the hostess, for the
purpose of going to the dressing-room for a moment.
It was understood that supper was ready; and two by
two, with stately step, the company followed -  to
the dressing-room. Supper there was none; and to
return to the drawing-room would have been ungraceful; so everybody went home.




THE CATASTROPHE OF "THE PRINCETON." 355
It was on the 28th of February that the dreadful
and heart-rending catastrophe occurred which was to
fill Washington and the land with mourning. The
fete was given by Captain Stockton on board the
Princeton. The ship proceeded down the river below
Mount Vernon, and on her return, when within some
twenty minutes' run of Alexandria, the large gun on
the bow was fired. It exploded at the breech, and
spread death and destruction over the deck! The
Secretary of State, Mr. Upshur, the Secretary of the
Navy, Governor Gilmer, Commodore Kennon, Chief
of the Bureau of Construction of the Navy, Virgil
Maxcy, and Mr. Gardiner of New York, were instantly killed. Colonel Benton and Captain Stockton were slightly injured.  Several others suffered
severely. A steamboat from Alexandria, which was
passing, was sent back to town, and returned with
several surgeons. The President, Colonel and Mrs.
Tuley of Virginia, and many ladies who were on
board, escaped without injury. Judge Wilkins was
"saved by a witticism."  He had been standing beside Governor Gilmer, and perceiving the gun was
about to be fired, exclaimed: "Though Secretary of
War, I do not like this firing, and believe I shall
run."1  So saying, he retreated.  The two daughters of Mr. Gardiner were on board, and were overwhelmed at the death of their father; while Mrs.
Gilmer sat on deck with hair dishevelled, pale as
death, striving to control her feelings; her lips quivering, her eyes fixed and upturned, without a tear.
Five hundred guests were on board; the ladies and
gentlemen had just dined, and the toasts were being




356        TYLER'S ADMINISTRATION.
drunk. Shortly before the catastrophe, Judge Upshur had been called on for his toast. He accidentally took up an empty bottle, and pleasantly remarked
that "the dead bodies" (the empty bottles) must be
cleared away before he could give his toast. By
chance another empty bottle was pushed towards
him; he repeated his joke, which drew from Captain
Stockton the reply that there were plenty of living
(bottles) to supply the places of the dead. The President then gave the toast: "The Princeton and her
three guns, &c." The leading gentlemen then withdrew from the table to make room for others; and
within ten minutes Judge Upshur himself was a dead
body! Six hearses were escorted by Mr. Wickliffe
to the President's house, where the body of Colonel
Gardiner remained till the funeral.
At this time the two great questions of the annexation of Texas, and the negotiations concerning Oregon, were before the country. Mr. Webster
took ground against the annexation. Calhoun, who
had accepted the office of Secretary of State, was
decidedly in favor of it, and not disposed to yield
an inch in Oregon. Mr. John Y. Mason was the
new Secretary of the Navy.  Mr. Choate's great
speech in the Senate on the Oregon question, was
esteemed a masterpiece, highly finished, elaborate
and classical. Mr. Tyler was reported to have said:
"I'll tell you, gentlemen, this Texas question will
ride over and ride down every other; and the politicians will fall before it as the soldiers fell at New
Orleans. It will kill all the men and parties that are
opposed to it; and the voice of the people will come




TEXAN MINISTERS.           357
back in favor of the annexation, like a mighty avalanche, sweeping both factions into ruin before it. I
at least shall have the consolation of knowing that I
have done my duty. I have no desire that war should
come during my administration: but, gentlemen, if
it does come, I shall push it through. I shall not
give way one inch; nor shall I yield one foot of our
territory of Oregon."  Mr. Webster was now considered opposed to the administration. General Henderson, the Texan minister, shortly after arrived with
full powers to negotiate the annexation. The other
minister, Mr. Van Zandt, had awaited him in Washington. Henderson had been appointed by President
Houston, in obedience to the secret instructions of the
Texan Congress. In case the American government
should refuse to accept the proposition of annexation,
Henderson was authorized to proceed immediately to
England, and to propose an alliance of some kind
with that power, either as a colony, or in some other
independent shape. Mr. Calhoun thus entered upon
his duties at a most momentous era. He had on one
hand the negotiation with Mr. Pakerham, which was
to settle the fate of Oregon, the fortunes of the West,
and one might say of the great Pacific empire; on the
other, the negotiation with Henderson, to settle the
fate of Texas and the fortunes of the Southern and
South-western States.
Mr. Calhoun now became the master spirit of the
American government, and his energy, decision, and
courage found a field of action.  The impending
measure of annexation plunged Washington and the
country into a state of ferment and excitement. Mr.




358        TYLER' S ADMINISTRATION.
Clay's letter, Mr. Van Buren's letter, Mr. Tyler's letter, went with the Virginia election to add fuel to the
flame. The atmosphere of Washington was political
rather than legislative. Probably never in the history of the government, had there been so much manoeuvring, intriguing and management. The master
key to the intrigues was found in the fact that a
desperate game of chess was being played for the
Presidency.
Mrs. Madison gave a large party on the 21st May.
It was attended by the Secretaries of State and of
the Navy, the Postmaster-General and Attorney-General, Mr. Spencer, late Secretary of the Treasury, many
of the diplomatic corps, members of Congress, &c.
Mr. and Mrs. Barrow had lately returned from the
mission to Portugal. Mrs. Barrow was a splendidlooking woman. A gentleman who had been American Secretary of Legation at Mexico, was describing
to Mr. Pakenham the beauty of a New York lady,
who, he said reminded him of what a queen ought to
be, "such a magnificent queen as Zenobia." "But,"
asked Mr. Charles J. Ingersoll, "What was the color
of Queen Zenobia? Might it not have been the subject of animated correspondence between Mr. Pakenham and Mr. Calhoun?" "Yes," rejoined Pakenham,
addressing Mr. Ingersoll; "and you, perhaps, would
have written a report about it!"
A delegate to the Baltimore Convention arrived in
Washington, who had come by way of Nashville, and
called on General Jackson. In conversation with the
old hero, he expressed his embarrassment as to the
vote he should give at the convention, in consequence




THE PRESIDENT'S BRIDE.        359
of Van Buren's opposition to annexation. General
Jackson, lifting his long skinny finger, said, emphatically, "You must forsake your friend, and cling to
your country."  Delegates now thronged every corner and quarter of the city. The musical sylvan levee
at the capitol the 23d May, in the afternoon, was fashionably attended; but the prospects of the nomination to the next Presidency occupied all conversation.
As the marriage of the President took place this
year, a brief mention of his bride is appropriate. All
who knew Miss Julia Gardiner remember the charm
of her conversation, her wit, her piquancy, and her
radiant countenance, bewitching grave and gay, old
and young. She was one of those born to shine, to
carry hearts by storm. The daughter of the Hon.
David Gardiner of Gardiner's Island, she was educated
in refinement and luxury, and early showed her possession of a mind of rare powers. When she entered
society, at a very youthful age, many were the poetic
tributes that proved her attractions - and grave
Senators,'Judges, and State Governors were among
the suitors for her hand; yet she remained heartwhole and fancy-free. Her parents took their two
daughters, Julia and Margaret, abroad, and their
beauty and grace everywhere met with distinguishing attention. The recipients of homage from men
of princely rank and fortune, had they been less
true to their American instincts their destinies would
have been cast in a foreign land. Miss Gardiner was
unmoved by rank and wealth and refused to exchange
her republican home for one under a monarchical
government.  Mrs. Sigourney wrote from  London




360        TYLER'S ADMINISTRATION.
that "English beaux, on meeting her, seemed suddenly to become aware of the value of their lost
colonies."
By this time Harrison had been elected President,
and his sudden death had called Vice-President Tyler
to take his place. When Miss Gardiner, on her return from Europe, attended the reception of the
President, he could not but feel the happy influence
of her presence, and he lost no time in expressing his
sentiments. This suit was successful after the death
of her devoted father, who was one of the five victims
of the disaster on board the ship of war "Princeton."
On the 25th of June following, the unexpected arrival of the President in New York created a great
sensation. What could be the cause of his sudden
visit! Numerous and contradictory were the rumors
concerning it; the annexation of Texas; trouble with
England; and every cause but the true one was assigned. It had been understood that he was to spend
a few days at the Rip Raps of Virginia; and this unannounced change of plan was unaccountable. The
next day at one o'clock the mystery was solved!
Bishop Onderdonk performed the ceremony; and Miss
Gardiner and President Tyler were joined in marriage in the presence of a few friends at the Church
of the Ascension in Fifth Avenue, New York.
The wedded pair embarked at four o'clock on board
the steamer Essex, amidst a shower of salutes. During the firing from one of the Mexican vessels in the
harbor, a perfect aerial ring appeared, soared upward
for some time, then gracefully sank till its rim touched
the water, when it broke and vanished. It was an




MRS. JOHN TYLER.            361
incident which seemed to betoken the rare and perfect happiness that ever followed this union of youth
and age until the death of Mr. Tyler in 1862.
Mrs. Tyler's receptions at the White House were
noted for their simplicity as well as elegance and refineinent. Mrs. Madison was an always included, and
an always present guest at the State dinners, and the
large or small reunions. Though so young in years
when it became her lot to do the honors of the executive mansion as "the President's Bride," it is an
admitted fact that she never lost sight of the claims
of age and position.
In 1853, the Duchesses of Sutherland, Argyle and
Bedford, Viscountess Palmerston, and a host of other
ladies of the English nobility, addressed a letter to
the ladies of the United States, urging them to effect
the abolition of slavery. Mrs. Tyler, then living in
retirement at "Sherwood Forest," her country-seat
on the James River, Virginia, wrote a spirited reply,
which met with universal commendation.
During the civil war Mrs. Tyler resided at the
South until her husband's death in 1862, when, ill and
heart-stricken, she repaired with her children to
Staten Island, in reduced circumstances, to receive the
protection of her mother's roof. After a deep share
of sadness and trouble, fortune has again smiled upon
her; yet she continues to reside on Staten Island.
The approaching contest was one of unusual importance. The two great parties were the democrats
and whigs; of the latter, Mr. Clay being the universally acknowledged and favorite candidate. The
nomination of James K. Polk for President, George




:362        TYLER'S ADMINISTRATION.
M. Dallas for Vice-President, completing the defeat
of Van Buren and Cass, was received by every faction and portion of the democracy with the strongest
marks of enthusiasm.
The election of Mr. Polk was viewed as a complete
vindication of the administration; and the President,
cabinet, and subordinates, were in exultation. The
fashionable world expected to reap the natural fruit
of this unbounded joy, and preparations were in progress to make this the most brilliant season ever yet
known in Washington. At stated periods the executive mansion was to be thrown open under. the auspices of the President's youthful bride-called " the
most splendid and accomplished woman of the time."
"Possessed of the highest order of beauty and intellect, with manners the most elegant and popular, she
will draw about her a court circle rivalling that of
Louis le Grand."  Other magnificent entertainments
were in progress. John Quincy Adams delivered a
lecture in one of the Baptist churches. Some concerts were given at the President's mansion.
Colonel Polk, the brother of the President elect,
came to Washington accompanied by Dr. Gwynn of
Tennessee, and created a great sensation among the
political circles in that capital. He was a State Senator in Tennessee, frank and manly in his general intercourse, shrewd and wary in politics. The capital
began to be crowded-the men looking. after offices:
the women flocking to parties. Mr. Pakenham, who
had become extremely popular, gave the most select
and elegant entertainment given since the days of
Sir Charles Vaughan. At the birthnight ball, besides




THE " PARTING INVITATION BALL."    363
the President and President elect, officers and ministers in costume, heads of departments, &c., the occasion was honored by the presence of Mrs. Madison,
and Mrs. Alexander Hamilton, then nearly ninety
years of age.
Mr. Choate was called "the nosegay orator."  His
speeches against the annexation filled the galleries
with the fashion and beauty of the day. "Ile could
fill their minds with fancied ambrosial vales, strewn
with flowers of richest hues, sending forth perpetual
sweet scents. I-e could paint the colors of the rainbow; send up a thousand jets of the crystal fluid, set
over the whole a thousand bright diadems, darting rays
of brilliancy athwart the wide-spread paradise, &c."
The President elect, Mr. Polk, was obliged to close
his levee at two o'clock, holding a short one every day.
A " parting invitation ball" was given by Mr. and Mrs.
Tyler late in February, and was crowded as usual. The
President elect was invited, but the illness of Mrs. Polk
prevented his attendance. Mrs. Tyler was gay and
cheerful, and the radiance of her smiles was reflected
on all except a few anxious applicants for office. Madame de Bodisco attracted all eyes by her graceful
movements in a cotillion with Mrs. Tyler and the representatives of Austria, Prussia, France and Russia.
Supper was announced at about ten, and such a rush
and crush to obtain entrance was never seen at a
Presidential entertainment; not one-twentieth of the
crowd obtaining admission at one time. Among the
distinguished gentlemen were General Scott, Commodore Stewart, General Lamar and Commodore Moore
of Texas. Mr. Dallas was there, carrying his white




364         TYLER'S ADMINISTRATION.
head about the room at least half a head higher than
the average of the crowd, except Colonel William 0.
Butler of Kentucky and "long John Wentworth."
The beautiful young wife of President Tyler opened
the ball with Mr. Wilkins, after which the gayeties
of the evening fairly set in. The sons of President
Tyler and their wives graced this last grand party of
their. father's retiring administration. Among other
belles, besides Miss Tyler, were Miss Wilkins, Miss
Wickliffe, Miss Edwards, &c. New York, Philadelphia
and Boston were represented by the presence of their
fashion and beauty. New York, it was said, could
safely rest its claims upon Mrs. John Tyler as head
of the list.
At this ball Mrs. Tuley of Virginia was conspicuous
and admired. Her dress was elegant, and her ornaments superb and in good taste. Her stately grace
and elegance of manner marked her as an appropriate representative of the proud and luxurious " Old
Dominion." She has for years past been extensively
known in the Northern as well as Southern cities;
but most of her winters were spent in Washington,
where she was the center of a distinguished circle.
Mrs. Tuley is descended from a noted Roman Catholic family, who, in company with Lord Baltimore, came
from England, settling the colony of Maryland under
the grant issued by Charles I. in 1632. She was twice
married.  Her first husband was Dr. Jackson of the
United States army. She afterwards married Colonel
Tuley of Virginia. Their magnificent estate, known
as "Tuleyries," in the valley of the Shenandoah, was
one of the finest and most valuable in' the State. The




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IMRB,.J.'YLEP p








MRS. TULEY OF VIRGINIA.       367
mansion was large and elegant, the park very extensive, and stocked with elk, deer and smaller game;
extensive fields stretched beyond, forming one of the
model plantations of the Southern country. The traditions of Virginia hospitality were well observed by
Colonel and Mrs. Tuley, and their generous and elegant style of living made their house a delightful
resort to a large circle of friends, among whom were
numbered the most prominent statesmen of the day
and distinguished foreigners, among them many of
high rank.
This ball formed an era in Washington society. It
was succeeded by a party at the house of Mr. Wilkins,
the Secretary of War.
23




XIII.
POLK'S ADMINISTRATION.
Progress of the President elect to Washington-Mrs. Polk and Mrs.
Knox Walker-Visit to President Tyler-The Inauguration-Mrs.
Tyler's last Reception-Inauguration Balls-Grace and Dignity of
Mrs. Polk in receiving at the White House-Mr. Dallas-An " April
Fool" Joke-Curious Habits of Mr. Fox —Spring Evenings at the
President's-Mrs. Abraham Van Buren-The May Balls-Madame
Pageot's Graduation of Aristocracy-Prominent Statesmen-The
Wisconsin Office-seeker-Louis McLane —Mrs. Polk's Elegance of
Dress and Manner-George Bancroft-Jimmy Maher's Opinion of
Mr. Polk and the Ladies —The Pottawattamies-Mrs. MIaury's Introduction at the Court-Descriptions of Mr. Polk and the prominent Statesmen of the Period-Conversation with Calhoun about
the Union-Visit to Mr. Clay-A populous New Year's Procession
-General Cass and other Orators-The Misses Sloman-The Hero
of Chippewa-Death of John Quincy Adams and Dixon H. Lewis.
THE progress of the President elect up the Ohio on
his way  to  Washington, was a triumphal one.  At
Louisville he took passage for Cincinnati, escorted to
the boat by military companies. Ile appeared in good
health and spirits, dressed in a suit of black broadcloth, and wearing  a black cloth  cloak with velvet
collar. He took off his hat in receiving the cheers
and congratulations of the people, though the day
was piercingly  cold.  Mrs. Polk stood in the center
of the ladies' saloon, wearing a purple silk velvet hat
trimmed with satin ribbon, striped with broad reddish




PROGRESS OF THE NEW PRESIDENT.   369
purple stripes, with a large black silk velvet cloak
with cape bordered with fringe and tassels. She held
in her hand a rich bouquet of flowers, and conversed
with easy, animated manner with a circle of gentlemen gathered round her.
Previously to commencing the journey, it was said
that Mr. Polk had visited the Hermitage, to have a
private and confidential conversation with General
Jackson, and to receive the old patriot's parting benediction. The General at that time was a prisoner
in his room from bad health. His last vote had been
given for Mr. Polk. The family of Mr. Polk consisted,
besides his wife, of his nephew and adopted son, and
another nephew who was his private secretary-Mr.
Walker. An ovation awaited the President at all the
towns and villages on his route, and at Cincinnati he
was received with unbounded enthusiasm. At Wheeling "Young Hickory" —as he was called,-had similar demonstrations of welcome. Among the fashionable ladies there'presented to him was Mrs. Shannon, the beautiful and accomplished wife of Wilson
Shannon, American Minister to the city of Mexico.
She was tastefully dressed, and her dark hair hung
in rich curls about her snowy neck. Mrs. Johnson
accompanied Mrs. Shannon. When the reception was
over, dinner was served, and the President's carriage
was brought out, of polished dark olive, with gilt borders around the panel work; four splendid horses being harnessed to it. The cushions inside were covered
with richly figured crimson cloth, ornamented with
lace trimmings; with blue and red figured heavy curtains. The President entered with Mr. Stevenson; Mrs.




370         POLKI'S ADMINISTRATION.
Polk following, escorted by Colonel J. Knok Walker.
The second carriage contained the Kentucky delegation; the third that of Louisiana; the fourth, Tennessee gentlemen. A band of music played, and the
carriages moved off to cross the Alleghanies. Near
a town in Pennsylvania they were met by a deputation in two carriages, which fell into the train, while a
large company of mounted men brought up the rear.
As they wheeled in front of a large seminary for ladies, a hundred young girls rushed to the doors and
windows, waving their handkerchiefs to greet the
new Chief Magistrate. At Harper's Ferry there was
a scene of crowding and cheering that beggared description. At a hurried dinner, while Mrs. Polk's servant woman was seated at a side table, several inquisitive young ladies asked her how many servants
Mrs. Polk brought with her; and being told "only
one," expressed their shallow surprise. "I thought
she would have had half a dozen."
The ladies pressed around for introductions to Mrs.
Polk, who received them with ease, grace, and unaffected simplicity. At the Relay House, after leaving
Frederick City, a thousand persons had come up in a
chartered train to meet the President; and he was
received with shouts c" loud enough to have prostrated
the walls of a cathedral; a cannon joining its roar to
the general clatter." A lawyer made an address in a
perfectly inaudible voice, and the President's reply
was given in concert with the squealing of two or
three steam-whistles, and a Babel uproar of human
voices. When the cars came in sight of Washington,
a cannon was seen to blaze away in the darkness from




THE TWO PRESIDENTS.           371
Capitol Hill. Fireworks were displayed, and a torchlight procession moved along in awful pomp. Before
the hotel the crowd was so tremendous, Governor
Polk had to be lifted'or passed in through a window.
The President elect and Mrs. Polk, accompanied by
Vice-President Dallas, ex-President Lamar of Texas,
General Ward, Judge Woodward, and others, visited
the White House, to pay their respects to President
Tyler and Mrs. Tyler. Mrs. and Miss Gardiner, Miss
Tyler, and Robert and John Tyler, were present, and
the courtesy and good-feeling evinced on both sides
rendered the interview most agreeable.
On the first day of March, 1845, President Tyler
signed the resolutions concerning the admission of
Texas. In the same week Iowa and Florida were adInitted as States, increasing the number to twentynine. The same evening Mr. Tyler gave a grand cabinet supper at which Colonel Polk was a guest. For
the inauguration a grand semi-circular platform was
erected in front of and fitting on to the portico. The
semi-circular projection had a raised platform at its
extreme point, on which the President was to stand,
with Chief Justice Taney to receive the oath of office,
visible to the vast multitude in front and on the right
and left.
The retiring President appointed the afternoon of
the 3d of March to receive his friends at the White
House for the last time.
Mrs. Tyler looked beautiful in a neat dress of black,
with light black bonnet and veil. Several, as they
took Mr. Tyler by the hand in farewell, shed tears;
while he stood calm and collected, receiving all who




372         POLK'S ADMINISTRATION.
approached him with cordiality and politeness. About
five o'clock, General Van Ness delivered an address
expressive of the regret felt by his fellow-citizens at
the parting. The President made a brief, happy and
grateful reply.
The largest crowd ever assembled in Washington
to witness an inaugurationl thronged the grounds and
capitol, at the delivery of Mr. Polk's address. - Chief
Justice Taney officiated. The number was estimated
at thirty thousand. President Polk immediately sent
in to the Senate the names of his official advisers as
selected by him; Senator Buchanan as Secretary of
State; Senator Walker, Secretary of the Treasury;
George Bancroft, of the Navy; Governor Marcy, of
War; John Y. Mason as Attorney-General, and Cave
Johnson as Postmaster-General. All were confirmed
but that of Mr. Bancroft.
The President and his wife received visitors at the
White House the day following the inauguration.
Mrs. Polk's ease, grace and simple dignity, combined
with the evidence of an amiable and cheerful disposition, won universal admiration.
The inauguration day was a wet one. No carriages
were allowed to enter the grounds or square of the
capitol. This of co'urse excluded all the carriages of
the foreign ministers; they had to alight at the entrance, and having no umbrellas, had to walk nearly
a hundred yards through the rain in gold lace and
cocked hats.
Among the ladies observed of all bachelors at the
ball, were Miss Ward and Miss Ritchie. "The Don
Giovanni of the age, the hero of the sea and the west



MR. DALLAS.              373
ern waters, the ruling spirit of the stormy democratic
elements of the redoubtable Empire Club-Captain
Isaiah Rynders" —was also there. When the new
President and Mrs. Polk, appeared accompanied by
Senator Woodbury, the dancing was discontinued,
while they walked up between the divided crowd,
and the- ladies craned their necks to get a view of
the wife of the President. They were conducted to
a raised divan, and the dancing was resumed.
"Mr. Dallas," said a letter writer, "is tall, straight
and dignified, with hair almost as white as snow, hanging over his coat-collar. He is beyond the meridian
of life, yet is active and buoyant as one of forty-five.
In his intercourse with his fellow-citizens, nothing can
be more kind, conciliating and gentlemanly. There
is nothing of that hauteur about him frequently seen
in the conduct of men elected to offices of importance
and responsibility; all who approach him receive at
his hands that attention which the man of breeding
alone knows how to give. Mr. Dallas is one of the
most popular of men; popular because of his winning and attractive manner. No one who has had
a single interview with him, can efface the strong
impression of regard for the man which it leaves
behind."
Before this time "female influence" had begun to
be developed, on behalf of the occupants of and
the seekers after office. Application was made for
the widow of Senator Linn, to be created postmistress
at St. Louis. It was said that Senator Benton was
opposed to her claim; though the idea of placing
ladies in clerkships and offices of trust was daily




374         POLK'S ADMINISTRATION.
gaining ground. General Jackson's intercession in
favor of Mrs. Linn with "Young Hickory," decided
the question of the post-office in her favor.
In April Mr. Buchanan left Washington; it was
said to escort his nieces and housekeeper to the capital, to take charge of his newly formed domestic establishment. A cruel April fool joke was played upon
a number of the department clerks, several of whom
in the morning found lying on their desks neatly
folded notes intimating that their services were no
longer required. Seized with consternation, they repaired to their chief's room with pale and anxious
faces, to learn that it was " all fool's day." The officeseekers were served with notes signed by the Secretary of the Treasury, requesting each to call at the
Treasury department on the following morning. Such
a gathering as there was! each armed with his note,
with roused expectation and smiling face, wondering
if the office to be tendered would be worth his acceptance. What frowns and scowls, clenched hands and
compressed lips, followed the discovery that they had
been befooled!
One of the notable social incidents was a wedding
at the house of the Secretary of the Treasury, when
his sister-in-law, Miss Bache, was married to a son of
Colonel Abert's the head of one of the bureaus.
Charles James Fox, the late British minister, was still
in Washington. He seemed to keep up the custom
of turning day into night; being only seen in the
streets about sunset. It was said he once wrote from
Italy to Lord Byron that he was-" so changed by sickness, his oldest creditor would not know him." His




PRESIDENTIAL RECEPTIONS.      375
appearance at this period was singular enough to prevent the possibility of his being forgotten. At this
time cabinet councils were held at the White House
at eleven on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.
On Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays the President
was accessible to the public from twelve to three in
the afternoon. The mansion was open to the public
on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday evenings at eight;
the President and Mrs. Polk, heads of departments,
&c., being usually present.
Mrs. Polk was assisted in her social duties by Mrs.
Walker, the wife of the private secretary of the President. She was a strikingly beautiful woman; lively,
pleasant and captivating. At these receptions the
old stagers in politics and office-seeking walked boldly
in, familiarly seized and shook the President's hand,
and immediately whispered some profound secret into
his ear; which meant that an office was wanted.
Then came the officials and gentlemen, who paid their
respects and moved aside to allow the President to
converse with' strangers. There were a number of
the substantial yeomen of the country, who came to
see and shake hands with the man they had helped to
place in his position. Some were bashful, and to them
Mr. Polk kindly advanced. The Secretary of State, Mr.
Buchanan, was stationed in the center of the room,
where he was continually surrounded by ladies and
gentlemen. Among those to whom he was most attentive, was Mrs. Abraham Van Buren, formerly Miss
Singleton, of South Carolina, an accomplished and
charming woman. There was the sagacious looking
Postmaster-General, Cave Johnson, with his wife and




376         POLK'S ADMINISTRATION.
daughter; and there was Amos Kendall, the whiteheaded seer, with his keen eye and aquiline nose.
There, too, was Major Hobbie, the first Assistant Postmaster-General, with his daughter, who clung to his
arm like a frightened fawn. There was the Spanish
minister and his wife and sister-in-law, a tall darkhaired and dark-eyed lady. Mr. Pakenham was there;
-"he has a thoroughly English look, though he is far
from looking the wily diplomat, which character is
generally attributed to the statesmen of the mother
country. He has far more of the frank John Bullism
which is characteristic of the people of England, and
is more like a republican and democrat than a royalist and an aristocrat."  There were also Mr. Bancroft,
the Secretary of the Navy, and his wife; and Mr.
Haight, formerly consul to Antwerp; Mr. Markoe, the
able Secretary of the American Institute; General
Gibbs McNiel, the celebrated engineer; Governor
Gibbs of Rhode Island, and a host of others. Mr.
Ritchie was then sixty-nine, tall, thin, of a spare and
rather bent form, an attenuated face like Amos Kendall's, but better looking. His manner was affable
and frank. As the head of " The Enquirer," he had
been accustomed to dictate to his party in Virginia.
"The redoubtable Chevalier Wikoff" was at this
time in Washington, in the goodly keeping of the
equally celebrated Beau Hickman. This latter individual usually wore a fine mustache, a hat of the
latest Parisian style; a black frock-coat, venerable
and respectable, sometimes buttoned up to the chin
when the thermometer ranged between 90~ and 95~.
A May ball was given on the 6th at the assembly




TIHE MAY BALL-A WEDDING.         377
rooms by Mr. Labb,'whose pupils were the children
of the aristocracy of the capital. The queen was Miss
Violetta Carroll, a descendant or relative of Charles
Carroll of Carrollton. Her maids of honor were Miss
Randall and Miss Keyworth.
Madame Pageot professed to be one of the leaders
of the ton, and was said to have been the first to
graduate the aristocracy of the capital according to
the salaries received from government. Cave Johnson, with his wife and daughters, were at the party,
he appearing heartily delighted to witness the pranks
of the juveniles, and smiling and laughing till his face
shone and glistened. Mr. Bancroft averred solemnly
that his wife would despise him if he did not or would
not admire the beautiful women present. Mrs. Walker,
the wife of the Secretary of the Treasury, was conspicuous; and so was Mrs. Knox Walker, with her
husband and little daughter. The company was brilliant indeed, notwithstanding a degree of stiffness and
restraint growing out of division into cliques.
Another marriage was that of Dr. Clymer of the
navy, to the daughter of the gallant Captain Shubrick.
It took place at the residence of the Commodore, near
the President's. Fennimore Cooper and his two daughters were present. The novelist had dedicated several
of his works to Captain Shubrick, on account of a long
existing friendship. Hon. Joseph R. Ingersoll officiated
as the friend of the bridegroom.
On the 9th of May, the concourse at the President's
gardens was large. Fanciful flower-beds, gravel walks,
groups of trees and artificial knolls presented varied
beauty, and the company was lively; but the absence




378         POLK'S ADMINISTRATION.
Of the President was noticed. People talked of how
General Harrison had won the affection of friends and
foes by the simplicity and republican familiarity of
his manners, and how one morning he bought in market a milch cow of a countryman. The man thought
"Old Tip" merely a plain citizen, and chattered away
without reserve. " Old Tip" invited him to go home
with him to breakfast; the stranger assented, and
walked side by side with his companion till they came
to the White House. When they turned in at the gate
of the mansion, the countryman was struck dumb, and
fell back in consternation. Then he began to apologize to the President for his familiarity.  "Never
mind," cried Harrison; "you are a man, and so
am I. You are one of the people, and I am their
servant, and their tenant in this house.  I shall
therefore regard. it as an honor to have one of my
landlords as my guest." The countryman went inside the gate a strong Van Buren man; he came
out with the strongest conviction that "Old Tip"
was a democrat.
Alexander Porter, the Senator from Louisiana, was
an emigrant from  Ireland, but loved his adopted
country. He died in 1844, after his second election.
John Forsyth, like Crawford, was a Virginian by birth,
Georgian by citizenship, and eminent in his day. He
was minister to Spain and Secretary of State under
the administration of Jackson and Van Buren. He
had all the requisites for keen debate; ready elocution, argument and wit; quick and clear perception,
perfect self-possession, great power to point a sarcasm
and to sting courteously. In social life his manners




R. Al. WHITNEY-PICNIC PARTIES.    379
were refined and polite, affable and dignified. He
died about 1845.
The history of Reuben M. Whitney, who died in
May, 1845, was known as one of singular transition
from princely power to hopeless helplessness. During
the administration of Van Buren, he was the great
comptroller of the pet bank system, with immeasurable power and influence; a name more potent than
that of any other man in the country. When the
pet banks went down, his power was extinguished,
and he became suddenly an obscure politician. Taken
up by President Tyler and provided with a secondary
post in the Treasury department, he was necessarily
expelled on the advent of Polk's administration. He
was turned out a poor man, afflicted with a mortal
disease; and from the day of his expulsion he lay
down never to rise again. His native energy deserted him; destitution stared him in the face, and
death may have been a welcome relief to him. His
wife, at one time courted as the cynosure of fashion,
elegance and refinement, was left alone with her
family.
The leafy month of June opened with excursions
and sailing parties.  The President and Mrs. Polk,
accompanied by Mrs. Madison, Mr. and Mrs. Bancroft, Mr. and Mrs. Mason, Mr. and Mrs. Marcy, and
the Marshal of the District, General Hunter, went on
a picnic to Mount Vernon, Mrs. Polk having never
before visited the tomb of Washington. Picnics to
Arlington House, the hospitable residence of George
Washington Parke Custis, on the other side of the
Potomac, were now all the rage among the fashion



380         POLK'S ADMINISTRATION.
ables. The hot weather furnished no other amusement.
A gentleman from Wisconsin, an important officeseeker, called at the Treasury department to see Mr.
Walker; and found a large number already waiting
in the anteroom. After waiting half an hour, he exclaimed: "Look here, door-keeper, ain't you gwine
to let me in to my friend Bob Walker, without any
more fuss?" "Can't do it, sir, till your turn comes."
"Turn!" (walking up and down the hall). "Here I
come all the way from Wisconsin territory, (taking
from his coat pocket a parcel of letters) recommended
by General Dodge-there's his letter; and the young
governor-there's hizzen; and by" —repeating a number of names. "Well, I can't stand this, waiter. Look
here, stranger! Jest tell the Secretary, before I'll wait
here all day to get into that door when my turn comes,
I'll see him  -  —." And the young giant from
Wisconsin departed in a rage.
The news of General Jackson's death draped the
capital in mourning. The departments were all closed,
and their doors were hung with crape. The capitol
was shut up and the courts adjourned. Due funeral
rites were prepared in honor of the memory of the
old Hero of the Hermitage.
Hon. Louis McLane of Maryland, went as minister
to England. His history as a politician showed his
ability to fill the office; and it was thought the State
of Maryland would feel the honor of the appointment.
Mr. McLane was a native of Delaware, and came into
Congress in 1817, remaining ten years in the lower
House, and two in the Senate, till appointed by Gen



DRESS OF MR. AND MRS. POLK.       381
eral Jackson, in 1829, minister to England. On the
breaking up of the first cabinet he was recalled from
London and appointed Secretary of the Treasury.
Afterwards succeeding Mr. Livingston as Secretary of
State, he resigned that office in 1834, on account of
a difference of opinion with the Executive. For eight
years he was the President of the Baltimore and Ohio
Railroad Company. At this time he was about sixty,
and conservative in politics. It was understood that
Mr. Everett would await his arrival in London.
" Mrs. Polk," said a letter writer, "C dresses in a style
rich yet chaste, and becoming her person, character
and position. Her husband is so spare that, if his
clothes were mlade to fit, he would be but the merest
tangible fraction of a President. He has them, therefore, especially his coat, some two or three sizes large.
We think a visit to the salt water, Piney Point, Old
Point, or any other point convenient for sea-bathing,
salt crabs and oysters, would be a great help to him.
We want him to live out his term, and go home to
Tennessee, at the expiration of a successful administration, in health of body and mind."
The insufferable heat of the weather as July advanced, the threatening aspect of affairs-a war with
Mexico assuming the shape of an unavoidable contingency-and the necessity of an extra session of Congress, were indeed exhausting to mental and physical
nature. The White House at this time was undergoing repairs, and its first floor redolent of villanous
smells of white lead and oil-cloths. Mrs. Bache, motherin-law of Mr. Irwin, Charge at Copenhagen, was about
sailing for Europe.




382         POLK'S ADMINISTRATION.
At the White House evening reception the 14th
November, there were only seventy-three persons,
while as usual, Mrs. Polk, elegantly dressed, kind, familiar, and simple in her manners, gained the good
will of every one. Mr. Polk, tired and teased half to
death, preserved his equanimity, courtesy, and patience, in a wonderful manner. It was known that
he was in the habit of cutting off from his sleep the
hours lost, to make up the amount of time which he
felt belonged to the nation. He rose at daylight and
took an early walk, followed by an early breakfast.
Then he worked till twelve; gave audiences till two;
took dinner early, and worked afterwards till late at
night. He was known frequently to pass most of the
night in reading papers of no importance except to
some applicant for an insignificant office; for he would
not make an appointment without being informed of
all the facts in the case. He was said to be the first
President except Washington, who observed this rule.
"Society in Washington," said a satirist, "is much indebted to the President for bringing on with him a
number of young fellows from Tennessee, giving
them a chance to see something of the world with
offices to support them." To his nephew who wanted
an office, he replied that he liked him too well to
gratify his wishes and see him destroyed; he must
go back to Tennessee and work in his profession. If
Mr. Polk had any ambition, it was to be loved and
esteemed in Tennessee. He loved that State as his
mother; and the wish near to his heart was to see
Tennessee come out strongly democratic under his
administration. Under no circumstances would he




MR. AND MRS. BANCROFT.         383
again be a candidate for the Presidency, anxious as
he was to perform the duties of his station faithfully
and conscientiously.
Mr. Bancroft was described as "of the ordinary
height, lightly made, with a high-toned, intellectual
air. He can be easily bland and kindly in his address, or as freezing as Greenland." The appointment of this distinguished scholar and historian, was
hailed as an honor paid to genius and capacity; but
he hardly came up to the standard of the democrats.
He made few changes in the fifty clerks under his
control, though they were all politically opposed to
him. Mrs. Bancroft was an elegant woman, with
great personal attractions, and a very graceful address. Her manner produced the impression of a
want of warmth, though that may have been due to
her New England habits. She was not demonstrative
in feeling, though ready and fluent, and even impulsive in speech. No one could possibly be better
fitted for the wife of a minister abroad.
Drawing-rooms were still held at the executive
mansion, notwithstanding the heat of the weather,
during the summer; but they were thinly attended,
and the conversation was formal and affected. "The
President looks remarkably well this evening," and'"I
never saw Mrs. Polk look better, more engaging and
youthful"-were the stereotyped phrases. A stranger
in striped breeches, who gave his name as Colonel
Parenthesis of Texas, called one day on the President,
who, doubtless expecting news from Colonel Twiggs
and General Taylor of the army, ordered his admission. The man, however, only came to say he had
24




384         POLK'S ADMINISTRATION.
voted for Colonel Polk at the last election; that he only
wanted to see who was James K. Polk, and being satisfied that he was "nothing extra," bade him good
morning. Jimmy Maher's opinion of the President
was —"Polk is a nice man; an agreeable man, and a
rale republican."  Of Mrs. Polk and Mrs. Walker he
said: "They are Christian ladies, neither vain nor
proud, though they well might be; they are the ladies that do honor to the nation, sir, and ye can't help
but like them."  Mrs. Walker-the wife of the secretary —was a regular attendant of the Foundry Methodist Church. If by accident she came late, she would
quietly walk up stairs and take her seat among the
ladies of the choir, that she might not disturb the services. Modest and simple in manner, unaffected and
unobtrusive, without vanity and without parade, and
one of the most agreeable of women in conversation,
she was justly esteemed a pattern to her sex. Mrs.
Thomas, —Miss McDowell, the niece of Colonel'Benton and William C. Preston,-had been known in Washington some years before as a brilliant and accomplished young lady, and was still popular. She afterwards went to reside among her friends near Lexington, Virginia.
Among the lady visitors to the White House was a
fat country-woman, who said she had heard of a woman in Washington who had a good kind of eye-water, and thought the President, knowing everything,
might tell her where the woman was to be found; and
as he had all the Treasury under him, might give her
a little money to get the eye-water, as she, the applicant, did "want some dreadful bad, and no mistake."




MR. CLAY'S REPARTEE.                    385
The Secretary of the Navy, Mr. Bancroft, it was said,
had a way of his own for the reception of visitors,
and the selection of his company.   The following
letter embodied a rather extensive prejudice:
" Any of the epauletted and gold-laced gentry of the army or navy
are promptly attended to, and are not long kept dancing'attendance'
-but an honest jack tar must quietly wait the pleasure of the high
functionary, although two minutes would suffice to transact all he
would wish. A sailor recently discharged from the frigate St. Louis
has been for three days at the door of the Secretary, knocking for admittance, with a check for five years' pay in his hand on the Exchange
Bank of Virginia, which was refused to be cashed in specie at the
bank.  He had called for the purpose of laying his complaint before the Secretary, from day to day for nearly a week, and could not
get to see him.. Another sailor required the signature of the Secretary
to a letter, which the duties of his office required him to sign; yet the
poor fellow is kept waiting hour after hour. Such conduct is not altogether democratic, it must be acknowledged!"
Mr. Clay, on one occasion, remarked to Mrs. Polk,
that, although some had expressed dissatisfaction with
the administration of her husband, not one seemed to
have found the least fault with hers. Mr. Clay was
always ready with a polite repartee.  Walking with
the writer of this work, who was leaning on his left
arm, at a party at Senator Preston's in South Carolina, Mr. Preston said to him: "You ought to give
the lady your right arm." "No!" was Mr. Clay's reply: "a lady should always have a gentleman's left
arm; his right should be free to defend her," adding
to his companion in his most gallant manner: "I
shall always be happy to use this right arm in your
service."
The last of October, the delegation of Pottawatamie Indians paid their respects to President Polk in




386         POLK'S ADMINISTRATION.
the presence of the Secretary of War, the commissioner of Indian affairs, and a number of ladies and
gentlemen. The Indians were presented by Col.
Elliott, an agent of their tribe for some years past;
and after they had taken seats,'" Half Day" arose and
thanked their'" Great Father" on behalf of his red children. A half breed interpreter officiated. While waiting for the interview with the President, the Indians had
reconnoitered the White House, and were delighted
with the great pier glasses of the east room, in which
they were reflected as large as life, feathers, paint,
beads, medals and all, and with the glittering chandeliers, etc.; but more than all with the fine picture of
Washington-their first Great Father-in the evening reception room. The delegation afterwards paid
their respects to Col. Benton, to whom the stalwart
Indian orator, in his speaker's costume, made an eloquent address. The conversation was joined in by
the ladies of the family, particularly Mrs. Fremont,
who had been much among the Indians of the far
West. Her little daughter was rather shy of the
chief's caresses; but Mrs. Fremont was a special object of interest.
Mrs. Maury, an English lady, visited the White
House on the first day of January, 1846, and praised
the good conduct of the immense crowd. "The
democracy behaved like a lady." The visitor had
had no time to deliver any letters of introduction,
but accompanied by her son, "simply introduced myself as an English lady, without even mentioning my
name.'I am delighted, madam, to see you here,'
said the President, shaking me cordially by the hand.




THE ENGLISH LADY IN WASHINGTON.   387
I then introduced my son, saying I should hope to
see the President again.'At all times, madam, you
will be most welcome.'"
She thus described Mr. Polk: "The President is of
low stature; his address is mild and perfectly unassuming; the tones of his voice are gentle and agreeable; his forehead is broad and high; his eyes are
well set, dark gray, and his mouth is expressive of
much firmness. I should think him habitually grave
and thoughtful; for, though I have often seen him
smile, I have never seen him indulge in laughter.
The President refuses a favor more kindly than any
one I have ever heard perform that most ungracious
duty of one in power. The art of conferring a favor
is as difficult as that of refusing it; but the sagacity
and good-feeling which called into active service Slidell M'Kenzie and the veteran Major-General Gaines,
are proofs that the President understands the one as
well as the other."
At the annual ball at Washington in commemoration of the battle of New Orleans, Mrs. Maury was
presented to Mr. Buchanan, then Secretary of State,
and said of him: " He looks like an English nobleman
of thirty or forty years ago, when the grave and dignified bearing of men in power was regarded as an
essential attribute of their office.  This aristocratic
address and manner, however, are natural, not acquired, in Mr. Buchanan; the result of an elevated
character and urbanity of disposition, united with the
long practice of office and the habit of command. I
have never for one instant seen the least departure
from that perfect self-possession which bestows so




388          POLK'S ADMINISTRATION.
peculiar a grace on him who can practise it, and
which has ever so singular an influence on him who
witnesses it.  The fair and delicate, though fresh
complexion of Mr. Buchanan, his eye of light blue
and full-blooded system, attest unequivocally his Anglo-Saxon descent.  In social life the Secretary of
State is easy and hospitable. In conversation he is
rather a listener than a speaker, but he is always in
advance of the subject as it proceeds.
"c Governor William II. Seward is a remarkable personage, and deserves peculiar notice.  His address
and manners are very agreeable, though his voice is
guttural and uncultivated, which possibly arises from
an absence of all pleasure in music; confessedly he
cannot distinguish a chant from a jig. His appearance
is very youthful for forty-four; he is of fair complexion, and has one peculiarity of feature which is
to me of singular interest. In speaking or smiling,
the upper lip has a slight nervous and tremulous
motion independent of its action in articulation.
This is of course involuntary, is observed only in
men, and is always accompanied by the most acute
sensibilities.  Seward's is an eloquent nature, and
invokes an eloquent interpreter; his words are flung
forth, simple, impassioned and searching, fresh and
free as the impulses of his breast."
Of the Hon. William H. Haywood, late Senator
from North Carolina, she said: "Mr. Haywood is a
man of great elegance. His deportment and address
are very distinguished, and he is perfect in all the
recognized conventionalisms of polished life. No one
understands better how to render social intercourse




EMINENT STATESMEN.           389
agreeable; he encourages amusement, enjoys conversation both grave and gay, and his compliments are
always gratifying, for they are in good taste. I should
imagine Mr. Haywood to be descended from the blood
of the cavaliers; his handsome features, his scrupulous
attention to dress, and the natural and graceful ease
of his manners, combined with his chivalrous devotion to the fair sex and success in the drawing-room,
all remind me of the descriptions we have read of
those high-bred spirits. I quote him as an admirable
specimen of that Chesterfield refinement and tact,
which are so frequently supposed by Europeans to
have as yet no existence in America. His speech on
the Oregon question produced an immense sensation,
for he was regarded as the intimate personal friend
of the President."
Mr. Hugh White, a member from New York, was
wont to relate an incident which contributed to the
formation of his character. Ie had followed the plough
till the age of nineteen, and soon afterwards went on
foot, with his knapsack, to visit the Falls of Niagara.
While he sat at dinner at the hotel, an English gentleman called out the landlord, and said he would not sit
at table with one so rough-looking. The host declined
interference, and the gentleman dispatched his servant
to send off the rustic intruder. Mr. White rose to defend himself, and said to the insolent stranger:'"I
know not, sir, whom I address; but the moment your
servant approaches me, I shall knock down his master,
who is responsible for the gross insult to an honest
man."  The sturdy frame and determination of the
rustic warned the "gentleman" to be prudent; he




390         POLK'S ADMINISTRATION.
retired from the contest, and the next morning apologized for his rudeness. The young man, on his return
home, applied himself with diligence to the improvement of his mind and his fortune, and met with success.
The English lady who dealt in couleur-de-rose
sketches, described Abbott Lawrence as " of graceful
address; the expression of his face highly intelligent
and amiable, and his features very handsome. His
language is well chosen, and his ideas are always exp5ressed with clearness. It may be said he has more
repose of character than is usual in the men of America, for they are the most excitable of all nations.
This peculiarity may perhaps be traced to his early
success in life, and his comprehensive knowledge of
the world. Ere he had yet attained the meridian of
life, wealth, honor, love, obedience, troops of friends,
had waited on him." The impression Mr. Benton
produced was always decided and abiding. "His action and gesture are expressive; his speech slow. In
personal appearance he has much of the Englishman;
is of a robust and muscular frame, somewhat inclined
to corpulency; his features have also more of the
English than of the American character  The habitual expression of his countenance is calm and elevated. The forehead is very massive. He has that
gentle self-possession of manner usual among those
who are conscious of superior strength. 1le possesses
great acquirements." Mr. Samuel D. Hubbard, a member from Connecticut, was a man "who has compelled
me, against all my prejudices, against all my sympathies, to love, esteem and respect him. lie is a Puritan, a Whig, a Protectionist, and abhors slavery; he




MRS. MAURY'S VISIT TO VAN BUREN.   391
condemns dancing; I hop about like a French grandmother; he despises the pomps and vanities; while
I, alas! am their loving, faithful votary. Surely no
man was ever so maliciously good as this representative of stern old Connecticut."
Mrs. Maury paid a visit to Mr. Van Buren in July,
1846. On arriving at Kinderhook, she took a carriage
for Lindenwood, his residence, at a distance from the
road, and then shaded by the limes in the luxuriance
of summer foliage. "On ringing the bell, a gentlemnan stepped from the parlor and advanced to receive
us. From the resemblance to his portraits, I immediately recognized the ex-President. I had received
my husband's command to pay my respects to Mr.
Van Buren, but I had no letter of introduction except
one from Lord Aberdeen to the British minister in
Washington; so I presented it to Mr. Van Buren, observing that it would certify that I was not an impostor. The ex-President took me by the hand, laughed
heartily at my mode of self-introduction, himself lifted
from the carriage my traveling band-box, ordered the
driver home, and then said:'The name you bear,
madam, is of itself a sufficient introduction. Of course
you will stay here, for it will give us the greatest
pleasure.' We sat down in a cool and pleasant parlor;
iced water, lemonade, and wine, were immediately
presented; we were introduced to the family, and after tea rambled through the garden and the farm.
The ex-President gathered flowers for me, led us to
look at his potatoes, presented me with a branch of
delicious red currants, and delighted me by calling
my boy'Doctor,' and walking along the fields with




392         POLK'S ADMINISTRATION.
his arm around the little fellow's neck. I could not
define the charm this magician flings upon his words.
His conversation is like a strain of varied music, now
grave, now gay; now learned, now simple. He praises
the deserving of all parties and all countries with generous candor and with discerning justice; and speaks
of himself with that unreserved confidence which is
so attractive in a distinguished man."
"Graceful, gallant, and accomplished, Robert C. Winthrop, is the rising glory of the whigs. Possessing
the prestige that naturally arises from gentle birth
and ample fortune, this promising member from Boston has no interest to serve, no favor to seek."  He
was the descendant of John Winthrop, the first governor of Massachusetts, and the founder of Boston.
"His bearing is highly aristocratic. In conversation
the natural and cultivated resources of his mind give
him great advantages."
"If you whigs make a President in 1848," said an
accomplished visitor, "let it be Judge M'Lean."  "Do
not wish that," was the reply; "if he were taken
away from the Supreme Court, where is the guardian
of the constitution!"  M'Lean was Postmaster-General in the opening administration of Jackson, who
appointed him to the bench of the Supreme Court in
1829. "Judge M'Lean" said Mrs. Maury, "is remarkably handsome. He is fifty-seven; of fair complexion, light blue eyes, somewhat bald, with a fine profile; his expression is of the noblest moral character,
with something of playfulness. He has a very melodious voice. He was a member of the Methodist
Church. The admirable head and powerful form of




WEBSTER AND CHOATE.          393
Mr. Webster make him  everywhere conspicuous.
The brow is ample; the eyes deep sunk, dark, and
seated immediately below the strongly marked and
shaggy eyebrows. The features and contour denote
expressively the strength of every mental faculty.
In repose the countenance is absent and thoughtful;
as if the reasoning powers were employed inwardly, independent of all external objects; and then as if the
mental exercise had resulted in undoubted conviction,
the whole face becomes radiant with intelligence and
animation. The contrast and transition of expression are very fine. He is always prepared; his mind
is full charged with knowledge, and his information
is always at hand. On one occasion, I was struck
with the admiration he evinced for a brother advocate. Rufus Choate, of Boston, was pleading in the
Supreme Court against a sister State for Massachuselts. I have no words to describe the extraordinary
effort of this remarkable man. The fluency, rapidity,
and beauty of his language, his earnest manners, his
excited action, his whole being conflicting with the
most intense emotion. He was all nerve; each sense,
each faculty was absorbed in the great duty of the
day.  Sometimes it seemed that tears alone could
relieve the uncontrollable agitation which thrilled
through his frame, quivered on his lip, and trembled
in his voice. For an instant he paused; then again
gushed forth his words clothed in each form of argument and persuasion that the reach of mind and
knowledge can suggest. His memory supplied quotations learned and to the point; his imagination
called each poetic fancy quick to his aid; his voice




394         POLK'S ADMINISTRATION.
of music attuned itself to all the varied tones of his
discourse, awakening in every breast the sentiments
and impressions of his own. He is the Proteus of
eloquence.  His study of the Massachusetts and
Rhode Island case must have been most laborious
and profound. He spoke four hours on two successive days. The subject was magnificent; the boundary line of rival States. The Supreme Court was
crowded. Judge M'Lean presided on the bench, listening with profound attention and graceful benignity.
Mr. Webster sat near Mr. Choate, his eyes riveted on
the speaker, and his fine countenance expressing the
most eager interest and the highest admiration. I
was in my favorite seat on the left hand of the judges,
and close to the desk at which Mr. Webster was
seated. The important subject, its learned and enthusiastic advocate, the benignant judge, the generous
Webster, hanging with delighted ear upon the accents of his gifted friend-I shall never forget the
impression left by those three wondrous men. Mr.
Webster is sixty-four or five, but looks seven years
younger. In society he is convivial. He can work
with the severest application, and prepare for any
occasion with wonderful precision  and rapidity.
Many traits of his profound mind remind me of
what I have heard and read of Charles James Fox
of England."
Edward Hannegan, Senator from Indiana, " is a genuine son of the West; ardent, impulsive and undaunted; thinking, acting and daring with the most
perfect freedom. His spirit is youthful and buoyant,
and he is ever sanguine of success. When Mr. Han



THE SENATOR FROM INDIANA.         395
negan made his speech on the Oregon question, he
alluded to Mr. Calhoun in terms of graceful approval;
and, after differing from the policy of that Senator,
spoke of his genius and virtues in terms of manly and
generous eulogy. I was in the gallery with a large
party of ladies. All were gratified with the words
of praise; and in the excitement of the moment I
threw down my glove to the speaker. The chivalrous Hannegan instantly picked it up, pressed it to
his lips, looked gratefully up to the gallery, bowed,
and placed it in his bosom. Next day the glove was
sent by post, to the wife of the Senator, then in Indiana. I preserve the less happy fellow to it. When
the speech was ended and the Senate adjourned, the
ladies went down to the floor. I had a careless trick
of leaving my purse upon the table in my parlor.
Mr. Hannegan, and almost all Americans, have a frank
and ingenuous habit of imparting advice gratuitously
to those with whom they are on terms of intimacy.
Having often found the purse thus left, the Senator
several times in vain reminded me of the indiscretion.
At length, during an illness in Baltimore, he came to
see me. On entering my parlor, he saw on the table,
as usual, the old green purse, full of fivedollar gold
pieces. Upon my appearance, he held it up; and after wishing me good day, admonished me for the last
time.'You pray that you may not be led into temptation; do unto others as you would they should do
unto you.' I never received a more efficient moral
lesson. One of the most agreeable evenings I spent
in Washington, was at an ice-cream party given by
Mr. Hannegan. This Senator was born in Lexington,




396         POLK'S ADMINISTRATION.
Kentucky, in the atmosphere of Henry Clay. He
seems scarcely forty, has brown hair; wears neither
beard nor whiskers; is of the medium height and
broad-shouldered. IIis address is very pleasant."
John Quincy Adams "is the representative of the
opinions and the recorder of the events of earlier
days.  Sometimes the venerable statesman is attacked by a member of the opposition, and then he
rises in self-defence with all the indignant warmth of
youth and the consciousness of an integrity none can
gainsay. When Mr. Rhett of South Carolina made
some remarks on the policy pursued by Mr. Adams
in 1812, I observed the emotion which gradually became evident in the countenance of the patriotic New
Englander. His cheek flushed, his veins swelled, and
the fervent blood of twenty summers rushed to his
temples. At length he rose, and spoke just at the
moment when he ought. Governor Seward had frequently excited my anxious desire to have an opportunity of seeing Mr. Adams when, the cares of the
day being ended, he received the visits of his friends,
and unbent his mind in social intercourse.  I was
much gratified when admitted to these' attic nights,'
and listened with delight to those instructive and fascinating lectures, in which learning and taste were so
eloquently combined. Poetry, painting, music, history, criticism, all in turn were the themes of his discourse. I was amazed at the range of knowledge
displayed by Mr. Adams, and the perfect system with
which it was hived and stored for seasonable use. I
remember that Mr. Adams, with singular frankness,
declared that he had never admired the Venus de




EMINENT STATESMEN.           397
Medici.' He gave the preference to painting over
sculpture, as being a higher art.
"Mr. Buchanan and Mr. Adanls are next door
neighbors to each other in Washington, and are excellent friends. At a ball given by Mr. Adams, Mr.
Buchanan conducted me to pay my respects to the
venerable host. The Secretary added that he had
given directions to be summoned to the House of
Representatives the moment Mr. Adams should begin
his promised speech on Oregon. Mrs. Gouverneur
reproached me playfully for not having called upon
her. I replied that I spent all day and every day at
the capitol, hearing and seeing the distinguished
men assembled there.'And then,' said she, laughing,'you will go home to England and write a book, and
abuse them and all the rest of the Americans.''Never,' said Buchanan, on whose arm I leaned;'never; I answer for her. If she puts pen to paper,
it will be to do us justice."'
"Mr. Albert Gallatin is eighty-seven; and in the
winter of 1845-6, when I saw him in New York, was
in the full enjoyment of excellent bodily health and
mental vigor. In June I had been gratified by a long
interview with this enlightened and sagacious statesman. His piercing and original remarks, his shrewd
criticisms on men and things, his erudition, his charming raillery, and above'all his perfect kindness, made
this visit delightful. Mr. Gallatin is by birth a native
of Switzerland, and fled from his country in early life
on account of his attachment to liberal principles.
He was held in the highest estimation by both Jeferson and Madison. His appearance at this time was




398         POLK'S ADMINISTRATION.
that of a European; his figure tall and thin, his
manner full of vivacity. His son and grandson were
present; two gentlemen waited upon him on business, and his amanuensis sat at his side. Finding him
occupied, I would have retired, but he would on no
account permit this; and he proceeded to converse
with us all in turn on affairs of amusement or business, occasionally dictating to the amanuensis."
"Amiable, sensible, brilliant and witty, Charles J.
Ingersoll is charming at sixty-three. That gentleman
on the Speaker's left, dressed in the old revolutionary
costume of buff and blue, is the chairman of Foreign
Relations; by reason of which office he assumed the
responsibilities of my guardian, and became my almost constant companion during my residence in
Washington. His character exhibits all the warm
uncalculating sensibilities of youth. Headlong and
rash, three-score years and three have failed to cool
that hot impetuous blood which dances, rather than
flows in his veins; but again a silken cord can lead
himi; can check his haste and curb his anger. Ingersoll is the wittiest man with whom I conversed in
America. After keeping him an hour at a ball, during which time nobody asked me to dance, I observed
that for his sake I was sorry I had no offers.'Madam,'
he rejoined,'I should instantly have repudiated them.'
It must be remarked that he is the representative of
Pennsylvania. I was accompanied by him to Mr. Buchanan's state ball, about a week after my arrival.
We had been in the room half an hour, when Mr.
Pakenham, the British minister, came up and addressed to me the courtesies usual on such occasions.




AIR. INGERSOLL-GENERAL GAINES.    399
He remained near me some minutes, speaking of the
ladies, their dress, beauty, &c.; during this time he
never once looked at Mr. Ingersoll, who never looked
at him. I was somewhat embarrassed at being addressed by two gentlemen at the same moment who
did not appear to recognize each other. My position
at last became so awkward, that I proceeded formally
to present them to each other. They bowed, exchanged a few passing words, and Mr. Pakenham
shortly after left us. Next day, when I asked my
guardian if he was upon terms with Mr. Pakenham,
he replied'We have not spoken for two years before
last night, when, a lady being the mediator, we could
do no less.'"
Of General Gaines she said: "This gallant officer
is eighty-three; he is pale and white-haired, tall and
emaciated; but his habits are punctual and early,
and so strict is his adherence to discipline, that a gentleman told me, that having heard General Gaines
was indisposed, he went to see him, and found him
lying in bed with his military collar on, and his sword
by his side. He is the mirror of courtesy to the fair
sex, and no gentleman handles a lady's fan with
greater dexterity; either sitting or standing he never
forgets to relieve her from the task of fanning herself."
In Mr. Tyler's administration, Calhoun, the Secretary
of State, was afterwards removed from the cabinet.
"On the occasion of his removal," said Charles Ingersoll, "Mr. Calhoun behaved like an angel. His gracious, princely nature, accustomed to give command
without appeal, is equally accustomed to receive sub25




400          POLK'S ADMINISTRATION.
mission without reserve; hence his gentleness and indulgence, and his compassion; no vulgar upstart display of authority is traced; he is served with the perfect love that casteth out fear. At this advanced age
his appearance is unlike that of other men. His action
is quick, and both in society and in the Senate very
expressive. He speaks with the utmost rapidity, as
if no words could convey his speed of thought; his
face' is all intellect, with eyes so dazzling, black and
piercing, that few can stand their gaze. Sixty-four
years have left their dark center yet undimmed, and
the surrounding blue liquid and pure as the eye of
childhood. Sometimes their intense look is reading
each thought of your bosom; sometimes they are
beaming with the inspirations of his own. I have
seen them suffused with emotion, when the feelings
of that ingenuous breast have been excited by honest
praise, or moved by sympathy. Mr. Calhoun's general expression is that of unceasing mental activity
and great decision. His forehead is broad and full;
a deep furrow extends quite across, and above the
eyebrows there is considerable fullness. His hair is
thick, long, straight and gray, and thrown back from
his face; the eyebrows are very near the eye, and the
cheek is gaunt. The mouth is thin, and somewhat
inclined downwards at the corners; it is the proud
and melancholy lip of Dante. His complexion is
bronzed by the sun of the south. Speaking of America, I once said:' Mr. Calhoun, you are a great experiment.''We are more,' he replied,'we are a great
hit.''Will the Atlantic and the Pacific States be
divided into separate republics?''They cannot be;




CALHOUN S VIEWS.             401
the Mississippi, a great inland sea, will keep them
united. The Union is indissoluble.'
"In February, I asked:' Mr. Calhoun, what is in the
future?''Peace and Free Trade,' said he.'I have
eight sons in England.''Bring them all here. We
are an exulting nation; let them grow up with the
country. Here they do not want wealth. I would
not be rich in America, for the care of money would
distract my mind from  more important concerns.'
Mr. Calhoun thought ladies should always be dressed
in white, and wear a girdle. He had great respect
for such external forms as tend to promote order and
dignity, and I believe it was he who established the
rule, during his Vice-Presidency, that members of the
Senate should be addressed as' Senators."'
"On the morning after the free trade measures
were carried in the House, I saw Mr. Calhoun for the
last time. After a struggle of twenty-two years,
truth and he had been successful; but no personal
exultation sparkled in his eye, or triumphed in his
words. The measure and its great consequences
alone occupied his thoughts. I remarked:'Mr. Calhoun, you are very dear to England, for the sake of
this peace, and this free trade.' Twice he has turned
his footsteps aside from the Presidency; once for
friendship's, once for duty's sake (upon the tariff of
1828.) Never was a man so adored by his State as
Calhoun.'South Carolina,' were his words,'alone
stood by me, mine she faithfully has ever been.' As
lie hung upon her memory and her devotion, her
statesman evinced the tenderness and pride with
vwhicll a lover dwells upon the constancy of his mis



402         POLK'S ADMINISTRATION.
tress. Is breath came quick and short; his proud
head was flung back, and his voice was subdued by
emotion."
In later years visitors to Mr. Clay at his home, could
attest the truth of the following': "Such as was
George Washington at Mount Vernon, retired from
the scenes of public excitement and service, such is
Henry Clay at Ashland. I saw Calhoun at Washington in the early spring of 1846, calm amidst the strife
and hurry of political warfare. I saw Henry Clay
in the May following in Kentucky, serene in'the
mild majesty of private life.' Clay and Calhoun are
the master spirits of America. Clay's very name is
a spell, and no sooner is it heard, than all mankind
rise up to praise it.
"We knocked at the door at Ashland, and were
saluted as old friends by the faithful negro who opened
it. In a moment Mr. Clay appeared, and with that
voice of surprising and surpassing melody, with winning smile and open hands, tendered the courtesies
of welcome. Assisting me to alight, he accompanied
us to the sitting-room, and read the introductory letters I had brought him. Into the garden we went,
and Mr. Clay pointed out the trees his own hands had
planted, cut for me every flower I looked on, conducted me to see his stock of cattle, and pointed out
his pets."  He invited the lady and her son to accompany him and his family the next morning to the
Episcopal church. "During the service, Mr. Clay
leaned his face down on his hands, which rested on
his stick, in the attitude in which he has been painted.
He almost constantly carried in his hand a full blown




ARCHBISHOP HUGHES.           403
rose, with a short stem, and frequently addressed
himself to its perfumed cup."
Clay was called, when a stripling, "The mill boy
of the Slashes," (a swamp), because he was often seen
on the road between his mother's house and Mrs.
Darricott's mill on the Pamunkey River, mounted on
a bag thrown across a pony that was guided by a
rope bridle.
The Right Rev. John Hughes, Catholic Bishop of
New York, was called by this lady c" the historical man
of his day. He assumes his position among the
statesmen of America as the representative,' priest,
controller and guardian, of a powerful body now incorporated in the democracy of the republic; the
Roman Catholics. He is the greatest temporal prince
in America, and the greatest spiritual prince in the
world." Though a stranger to the faith of the Bishop,
Mrs. Maury formed an enduring friendship with him;
and he pledged his word, at their parting hour, to be
near her on her death-bed, if he still lived, and if
time and distance could be overcome. "And the
Bishop bade me kneel, and I knelt beside him; he
laid his hand upon my head, and then from his lips
gushed forth, in mingled power and beauty, the full
strong tide of human affection; in accents strange
and new; for I had dreamed not of the love I had won
from that exalted nature; and with faltering voice he
blessed me and my way, and those I held dear, to him
unknown; and for many minutes he was silent; but
the vows, unheard by me, were accepted at the throne
of Him who rideth on the whirlwind, and who saith
unto the waters'Peace,-be still."'




404         POLK'S ADMINISTRATION.
Mrs. Maury had brought letters of introduction
from Lord Aberdeen, then Secretary of State for
foreign affairs in London, to Mr. Pakenham. Those
letters were procured at the personal request of Lord
Sandon, and were in the most favorable terms. Mr.
Pakenham was civil to his country-woman; but as she
remarked, she required not his services. "The President himself, the Secretary of State, and every American took care of me."  The only ambassador with
whom she became acquainted was M. Serruys, the
Belgian minister, whom she met at the house of General Van Ness. And her conclusion was that the time
had arrived when the courts of Europe would find it
imperative upon them to send to Washington their
most gifted, influential and popular statesmen as their
representatives.
Lieutenant Matthew Fontaine Maury was the principal navy officer at the observatory at Georgetown. He
was a man of science, an accomplished mariner, an
admirable astronomer and mathematician, and wrote
well.
Of Calhoun a gifted authoress wrote: "The champion of free trade; a slaveholder and a cotton planter;
the vindicator of State rights and yet a firm believer
in the indestructibility of the Federal Union; now
claimed as a whig, now revered as a democrat; now
branded as a traitor, now worshiped as a patriot;
now assailed as a demon, now invoked as a demigod;
now withstanding power and now the people; now
proudly accepting office, now as proudly spurning it;
now goading the administration, now resisting it;
now counselling, now defying the executive; but in




CALHOUN'S POLITICS.           405
all changes of circumstances, all trials of patience, in
smiling or in adverse fortune, ever forgetful of self,
and faithful only to the inspirations of the genius
and the virtue of which his name is the symbol. No
vice, no folly, no frailty, has soiled his nature, consumed his life, or extorted his remorse; his country
has been his sole engrossing passion, loved with the
devotion of a Brutus, and served with the fidelity of
a Regulus.  Politics may be considered to have almost exclusively occupied the life of this great statesman; not the sordid intrigue of partisanship, not the
venal craving of place and pay; not the debasing
sacrifice of honesty to popularity; his soul disdains
such base employment of her faculties; nay, I question if, with all its keenness, his mind could comprellend such schemes of politics. His are not even
the tactics of a State or section, nor alone those of
the United States; but they comprise those exalted
views which, deduced from philosophy and history,
and proved by practical experience, are found to constitute the true policy of all nations, and to be the
universal principles of all righteous governments.
They are the decalogue of republics. The impression produced by the single mind of this man, by the
principles he has advocated, will exercise an influence
more deeply based and more abiding upon the institutions of the United States, than any system or
movements yet enunciated from the constitution and
predicated upon its laws. He once said to me:'I cannot express the indifference with which I regard the
Presidential chair, compared to the honor and usefulness of establishing this great measure of free trade.'"




406         POLK' S ADMINISTRATION.
New Year's day, 1847, was a bright and beautiful
one. The executive mansion was crowded with a
populous procession for several hours. The absence
of the Major-General of the army and his staff, told
an eloquent story, as did the absence of many officers
of the army and navy. They were in the South
fighting the Mexicans. A welcome and inviting refreshments were offered at Mr. Mason's and Mr. Marcy's; at the Vice-President's, at Mr. Walker's, at Mr.
Cave Johnson's, at the Mayor's, and at other houses.
The estimable widow of Major-General Macomb received her visitors with several young ladies at her
side, dispensing cake, wine and cordials, and the best
wishes of the season. Her quiet and winning manners caused even the stranger to feel the genial atnmosphere of home. Mrs. Madison also received calls,
surrounded by a host of young lady relatives and
friends. She wore a beautiful white turban, and looked
regal as one of the last among the representatives of
the glory, chivalry and beauty of the Old Dominion.
In the evening there was a ball, with various other
entertainments and social reunions.
On the 16th January, 1848, Miss Sarah Benton was
married to Mr. Jacob, of Louisville, Kentucky. Miss
Jacob had married a son of Mr. Clay, and the family
was related to Colonel Taylor, brother of the General.
Mrs. Clay was a Hart, and Benton's Christian name,
Thomas Hart, was after the family, to which he was
related. Henry Clay himself led the bride to the
supper-room, and among other guests were present
Mr. Buchanan, Mr. Crittenden, Mr. Johnson of Louisiana, and Mr. Vinton, There had been a coldness




EMINENT STATESMEN.            407
between Benton and Clay; but this new  amnesty
made a lasting bond. Mr. Clay had his quarters at
the United States hotel, and was waited on every day
by large detachments of ladies. Every evening he
dined out, and every day at twelve dismissed his visitors to go out.
In a debate in the Senate, General Cass's oratory
was described as " an explosion of the fire of a soldier
and the fervor of a patriot.  He glanced at Great
Britain, and with a few strokes painted the vastness
of her empire, the graspings of her ambition, and the
subtlety of her intrigues." Not a Senator heard the
appeal "without a feeling either of exultation or
anger, which could not be repressed, and the galleries showed many a fair face flushed with excitement."  Mr. Mangum, Senator from North Carolina,
rose in reply, and a brief notice of his oratory will be
interesting.  "Fromn the moment he first took the
floor, he trembled with excitement, and his eyes
flashed with indignation.  Hle gathered images of
power and occasional beauty, and his earnestness
made the chamber feel what he himself evidently
felt so deeply. His violation of the rules of courtesy
towards his gallant and generous antagonist nearly
lost for him the sympathy of the House, and this bad
move tipped his dish over. Senator Allen rose on
his heels like a thunderbolt. His lean cheek was hot
with fire.  It was a masterly effort, and he carried
the House with him.  Mr. Mangum writhed under
every thrust. Twice he rose to explain, and twice
the Buckeye came on again, hurling a deadlier blow
than before. If Mr. Allen had more of the stern iron




408         POLK'S ADMINISTRATION.
selfcontrol of the great orator, he would be one of
the best speakers in the country. Allen's was a stirring, powerful, convincing, logical appeal."
The grand fashionable season opened the last week
in December with the first assembly at Carusi's saloon.
Four of these parties were announced for the session.
The music, dancing, assemblage and suppers were
superb and satisfactory.  A concert given by Mr.
Sloman and his two accomplished daughters was the
delight of a full audience of the elite. Those young
ladies also played the harp and piano and sang at a
private party given at the President's mansion. The
new chaplain of the House, Mr. Milburn, was nearly
blind and very poor. His manner and voice were
agreeable, his emphasis and modulations pleasing, and
he did credit to his position. It was said Mrs. Linn,
the widow of the Senator from Missouri, had induced
him to try his chance for the chaplaincy, and her
recommendation had acted like a charm in his favor.
The President continued a faithful attendant at Mr.
Sprole's Presbyterian church, where, in all weathers,
his carriage might be seen at eleven.  Mrs. Polk
would not permit dancing in the White House.
A bill passed the Senate toward the close of December, for the payment to the widow of Alexander
Hamilton, of twenty thousand dollars, on the delivery
by her to the librarian of Congress, of the manuscripts
of her deceased husband, and five hundred printed
copies of the same bound in leather. There were five
volumes, each to consist of five hundred pages. The
arrival of General Sam. Houston from Texas, created
a great sensation. "He stands erect as a Norway




GENERAL SAM. HOUSTON.         409
pine; but is sadly changed from the splendid man of
fifteen years ago. He was dressed in a suit of gray,
frock coat with metal buttons, and appeared remarkably fresh and vigorous after his long journey. His
partial baldness added to the commanding impressiveness of his remarkable countenance." Since the last
inauguration General Scott had been a prominent aspirant of the whigs for the campaign of 1848. He
had been endorsed by Henry Clay, his friends had
multiplied, his competitors had yielded, and he seemed
to be regarded generally as the successor to the fortunes of the great Harry. Thus he was courted,
flattered, and caressed by the politicians, and needed
only to remain in Washington. When the war opened
with Mexico, the hero of Chippewa was appointed to
head the army of occupation in the South. But his
letter to the Secretary of War protested against assuming the command of the Southern army, for various reasons given. The Secretary of War, in the
name of the President, reprimanded the Commanding
General for his undignified letter of complaints and
insinuations.
"The fact of Mr. Clay and Mr. Polk dining together
at the White House, was significant and astonishing.
Mr. Polk laid aside his usual reserve and entertained
his distinguished guest as a friend long absent. Washington was gay with parties and balls this season,
till the death and funeral of the great and good exPresident, John Quincy Adams, occupied all minds
towards the last of February. Public business was
suspended, colors were flying everywhere at half-mast,
and a general gloom pervaded the city. Thousands




410         POLK'S ADMINISTRATION.
of eager spectators thronged the capitol on the 25th,
where the body of the illustrious deceased reposed
in a splendid coffin. The President gave orders that
all the executive offices should be placed in mourning,
and all business suspended for two days. In announcing to the Senate the death of Mr. Adams, Mr. Benton said: "Mr. Adams has just sunk down in his
chair, and has been carried into an adjoining room,
and may be at this moment passing from the earth,
under the roof that covers us, and almost in our presence." The Senate immediately adjourned, and all inquiries were directed to the condition of the stricken
statesman. He had been removed to the Speaker's
room, where he slightly recovered the use of his
speech, and uttered in faltering accents: "This is the
last of earth;" and soon after, "I am composed." Ile
lingered two days; passing away at octogenarian age,
hung over in his last moments by her who had been
for more than fifty years the worthy partner of his
life. Mr. Webster was suffering from domestic affliction, the death of a son and daughter, and could not
speak at the funeral.
Alexander Barrow, Senator from Louisiana, died
about 1848. He had a noble heart, with honor, courage and patriotism; and a quick, clear and strong
judgment. He was in the hope and prime of manhood, and time was ripening and maturing his faculties. The death of Dixon H. Lewis, Senator from
Alabama, had occurred in October. He was one of
the most able and accomplished members of the Senate, and in Alabama he attained a popularity such as
no other man in the State enjoyed.




XIv.
TAYLOR'S ADMINISTRATION.
Character of General Taylor-Mrs. Taylor-Their Children-Residence
at Baton Rouge-Meeting of Taylor and Clay-The Rush of OfficeSeekers to the New Orleans Tailor to put their Petitions in " Old
Zach's " Pockets —Setting out of the Ladies for Washington-Progress of the President Elect-Afoul of a Snag-Landing and Rustic
Reception-Accident on board a Steamboat-President Polk's last
Levee-Amusing Visit of General Cass to President Taylor-IIis
personal Appearance-Ladies of his Party-Inauguration Ceremonies-Comical Description of the Ball-The Cabinet-Death of General Gaines-Return of Henry Clay-The Osage Indians at the
White House and at their Hotel-Senator Fremont-Amusing Scene
in the Senate-Sir Henry Lytton Bulwer-Death of Mr. CalhounDeath of President Taylor-His Obsequies-His Career.
ZACHARY TAYLOR, in 1810, married Margaret Smith
of Maryland. He was an unexceptionable father and
husband. His temper was calm, firm and cool, yet
amiable and gentle.  Mrs. Taylor was an exemplary
woman. Simple and unassuming in her manners, she
was courteous and kind to her dependents, and affectionate and confiding to her friends and relatives.
Two daughters, and a son of this worthy couple were
living.  One daughter had married Colonel Jefferson
Davis, against the wishes of her father, who for years
did not exchange a word with her husband.  At the
siege of Monterey however, chance placed the two
men close together and the opportunity was seized by




412        TAYLOR'S ADMINISTRATION.
Colonel Davis to restore good-feeling by satisfactory
explanations. Mrs. Davis had been dead for some
years at this time. The other daughter, familiarly
called "Miss Betty," was a beautiful girl, and well
fitted to grace the White House by her presidency.
She was soon after married to Colonel Bliss, who was
almost a regular inmate of General Taylor's house.
Another living daughter was married to Dr. Wood
and resided in Baltimore. When the subject of General Taylor's call to the Presidency was first agitated,
Mrs. Taylor was very much opposed to it. A short
time after his nomination by the whig convention in
Philadelphia, his political friends wrote to urge him
to visit the North; but he refused, saying he would
not "go across yon ferry, to influence the public
choice, or to secure my election. I have never aspired to the Presidency; if the people elect me of
their own free choice, my humble services will be at
their disposal. If they elect some other candidate, I
shall not be in the slightest degree mortified."
Baton Rouge, his place of residence, was said to be
intensely dull. The only thing of moment that had
taken place for a long time, was the appearance of
cholera; its ravages and disappearance causing some
excitement, which saved many from dying of ennui.
The General was accustomed to walk about like a respectable farmer, and was anything but a " lion." His
unassuming manners and singular simplicity of habits,
were marked traits in his character; and in the town
his name was never mentioned in connection with
politics, nor even at the garrison unless in reference
to military affairs. He could not have been more un



GENERAL TAYLOR AND MIR. CLAY.   413
noticed were he the defeated instead of-the victorious
candidate for the Presidency. Mr. Clay on his way
to New Orleans from Natchez, touched at Baton Rouge
and an interview took place on the evening of the
11th January, 1849. General Taylor happened to be
on the wharf boat at the time the vessel approached
in which Mr. Clay was a passenger. Their greeting
was cordial. Clay did not remain at Baton Rouge,
nor was he invited to do so. At the meeting: "Why,
General," pleasantly remarked Mr. Clay, "you have
grown- out of my recollection."'You can never
grow out of mine," was the ready response of the
General, whose face beamed with pleasure and who
was unaffectedly delighted to see the great statesman.
"I congratulate you, General, upon your election to
the Presidency, and I hope your administration may
be as successful and glorious as your military career,"
said Mr. Clay. "I thank you, Mr. Clay; but I am not
President yet; and    " As General Taylor modestly hesitated, Mr. Clay broke in with some playful
remark, which led to an agreeable conversation. The
captain of the "Princess," not wishing to interrupt so
pleasant a reunion, detained the steamboat some time.
The General and Mr. Clay parted with expressions
of mutual esteem, and a hope that they might soon
meet again. The great orator at this time had grown
thinner, but did not look older than when, a year before, he had participated in New Orleans with the citizens in celebrating the victories in Mexico.
Colonel Bliss, the General's son-in-law, was to go
to the North by the Atlantic route at the same time
the President elect went by land, stopping a few days




414        TAYLOR' S ADMINISTRATION.
in New York. He was a quiet, modest and unpretending man; endowed with a high order of intellect,
and a fine literary taste. Mrs. Bliss was amiable and
dignified; an excellent young matron; not dashing,
nor dazzling in beauty, but gifted with the more estimable qualities of good sense, intellect and feeling.
It was arranged that the New Orleans steamer
should call at General Taylor's plantatibn, and take
him to Vicksburg.  Several citizens of New Orleans
were invited to accompany him to Washington. It
was said that a fashionable tailor of the Crescent
City, having an order to make two suits of clothes
for the General, there was a rush of well dressed
gentlemen to the shop, all earnestly requesting to
be allowed to look at the clothes, and particularly to
examine the insides of the pockets.  The shrewd
tailor, suspecting their object to be office-seeking,
told them  they might put their letters into the
pockets of the suits, but he should require fifty dollars each for the letters in the pantaloons pocket,
thirty for those in the coat pocket, and twenty for
those in the vest pockets. Mrs. Taylor, with Colonel
Bliss and Mrs. Bliss, Major Hunter and Mrs. Hunter,
went from New Orleans to Mobile, and there took
passage for Montgomery, on their way to Washington. The family was to spend a month or six weeks
in Baltimore with Colonel Taylor, a brother of the
General, and Mrs. Wood, the daughter. The suite
of the President elect was very limited. At Baton
Rouge his personal friends assembled for the purpose
of bidding him adieu, and went in procession to his
residence, when addresses were interchanged. His sub



PROGRESS OF THE PRESIDENT ELECT.   415
sequent movements were telegraphed to the people:
how lhe reached Cincinnati; how he ascended'the
crests of the Alleghanies and descended them, etc.
Crowds followed him wherever he appeared, and on
every public occasion he took care to assume the
position lie had taken in his letters before the election,-that he did not expect to be the President of
a party. At Louisville the streets were thronged;
the doors and windows were filled with spectators,
and the American flag and white handkerchiefs were
waved by fair hands in enthusiastic welcome.
Going up the Mississippi, the steamer on which
General Taylor was a passenger, ran foul of a snag, and
sustained so much damage the passengers thought it
best to go ashore for awhile. General Taylor and
others got into a small skiff, to land; a drunken fellow jumped in after him, and stood up in the frail
craft so as to endanger it. "Sit down, my good man,"
said the General, "sit down," but the fellow, instead
of obeying, began backing the skiff under the guards
of the steamer and across her lines. The General
lost patience, and exclaimed: "Sit down, you drunken
rascal, or I'll throw you overboard!"  This threat
brought the fellow to anchor in quick time. Men,
women and children were collected on the shore, and
the General had to go through the kissing process
with the feminines, which he did with a good grace.
The "reception-room" was illuminated by one "tallow dip," just enough to make darkness visible. A
countryman came up to enquire of one of General
Taylor's suite if he ever drank brandy; the whispered
reply was: "He never does,'but his friends do;" and
26




416        TAYLOR'S ADMINISTRATION.
the black bottle was forthcoming.  Among other
curiosities produced, was a young Arkansas "sucker,"
eight or ten months old, presented by his mother.
The General took his dimpled hand, and hoped he
would one day become a General too; whereupon
the child was at once dubbed "the young General."
When they embarked again, the cheers of the company were given; the voice of the young General
sounding a full octave above the rest.
At Nashville his reception was enthusiastic. The
whole city hailed his landing with shouts and discharges of cannon. At the door of the hotel, as he
was going out to ride, a crowd of boatmen came about
him, and so blocked up the way in trying to get "a
look at old Zach," that he stopped, and began to address them in a humorous, off-hand way.'CAin't he
a hoss!" "He's one of'em?" "Kentuck to the back
bone!" "CH-Ie'll do!" "Three cheers for Old Zach!"
were the exclamations from the rough honest men,
who had voted for him and came to look at him.
Through all his jovial manner, he never parted with
the air of military command that always distinguished him.
An old farmer and soldier, who had come forty
miles to meet him, made his way through the crowd,
and seized his hand, saying: "General, I have voted
nine times for President, but never gave any vote
with as hearty good will as the vote I gave you. I
felt that I was voting for an honest man, who would
restore the ancient order of things." CI belong to
the old school," responded the General, "Cand I will
do my best."  A toast given at the Louisville dinner




GENERAL TAYLOR'S PROGRESS.        417
was as follows: "General Zachary Taylor-in his
birth, a Virginian; in his boyhood and early manhood, a Kentuckian; his glorious achievements upon
his country's battle-fields have made him the common
property of the nation, and his wisdom and virtue
will render him, as Chief Magistrate of a great republic, the benefactor of the world."
At Frankfort General Taylor was received by his
gifted friend Governor Crittenden, with a welcome in
the State House. At supper in Madison, he proposed
as a toast,' The fair daughters of Indiana." On board
the boat, while he was going through a passage, some
impediment tripped him and he fell on his side across
a trunk, receiving a severe bruise. In Cincinnati he
visited the ball given in honor of his arrival, received
by the Cincinnati Life Guards in military order. As
he entered the room, the company presented arms;
and the ladies, abandoning the dance, ran and clasped
him around the neck, giving and receiving kisses in
compliment to the hero of many victorious battles.
He arrived in Washington February 23d. The mayor
of the city received him. The Vice-President, Millard
Fillmore, arrived the next day, and was acknowledged
to be "one of the finest-looking men in the United
States." The President elect talked freely and fluently
about everything but the offices. On the railway as
he came along, he had been escorted by a young
whig, who put in a petition for himself for an office.
"I have only one office," replied the General, "and
you are welcome to it if the people are agreed. Very
cold weather for the season, I think, sir."  "Yes, but,
General, I have lost money during the campaign."




418        TAYLOR'S ADMINISTRATION.
"Very sorry, sir; but do you think it will rain tonight?"  "Looks very much like it, General; but
really, if I have been too fast, I beg your pardon."
"Thank you, sir, let us all do what we can for the
country, and we shall have no cause of regret.
Thrifty-looking country in this neighborhood!"
Mr. Polk gave his last levee in the closing week of
February.  There was no one in Washington who
did not regret his and Mrs. Polk's departure. Meanwhile, in every bar-room, oyster-cellar, and billiardroom, where speculators in offices abound, and at
every dinner-table, General Taylor's cabinet was the
standing dish. General Taylor received his visitors
from twelve to one. He won every one, whig or
democrat, by his unostentatious bearing and kind
benevolent manner. A stranger would hardly believe that the plainly dressed old gentleman, with
hat stuck on the back of his head, and spectacles
shoved up on his forehead, was the President elect
of the United States. Mrs. Bliss received the ladies
who came to pay their respects, every morning.
General Cass arrived, unheralded and scarcely noticed. On the first day of March, accompanied by
Senator Fitzgerald, he came to the hotel, and went
up to General Taylor's rooms. Taylor at once recognized him, and coming forward, grasped his hand
in both his own and shook it most cordially. General Cass, who had not at first recognized him, observed with a drollery that caused every one present
to laugh heartily — By the way, General, you had
the advantage of ine! That is twice you've had the
advantage of me!" "That is true," remarked Taylor,




Responsibilities kiiiil!
Ip
TN,
Al'l Pirelli








DRESS AND APPEARANCE.         421
"but you know the battle is not always to the strong,
eh!"  "That is a fact," replied Cass, with an emphasis that renewed the laughter. "How do you
feel, sir!"  "Pretty well, thank you, except that I
have two or three ribs stove in, that's all. I got on
board a small boat at Madison to go to Frankfort, and
just as she was about to start, stepped out of the saloon, and stumbled over a large black trunk in the
dark passage. I thought both my legs, my arms, and
all my ribs were stove in."
As General Cass was retiring, a gentleman met
him, and said: "Well, General, in all the States where
I stumped it, you got the vote."  " Indeed," replied
Cass, laughing, "I am very much obliged to you,
my friend, but-I wish you had stumped it in two or
three rnmore."
General Taylor usually dressed in black, and neatly, though without much regard to taste. He was
thought by many more portly than they expected to
see him, and approaching more nearly what was
deemed the beau ideal of a well fed alderman. His
hair, white, and but thinly covering his well formed
head, was allowed to straggle in all directions without attention to military precision. He had a uniform reply when the multitude cheered him. "Heaven
bless you, gentlemen; peace be with you;" and to
the ladies who waved their hands or handkerchiefs,
his stereotyped phrase was: C"your humble servant,
ladies."  An observer said: "The personal appearance of General Taylor is dignified and noble. He is
exceedingly affable in his manners and deportment.
His dress yesterday consisted of a plain suit of blue,




422        TAYLOR'S ADMINISTRATION.
with a pair of large woolen'socks drawn over nls boots,
denoting'that he' thinks more of solid "comfort than
display.  His eyes are mild, beautiful and brilliant;
he has a stoop in his gait, and his hair is light gray.
His voice is soft and agreeable. While speaking of
his election to the Presidency, he said his wife had
made a' nightly prayer for several months, that Henry
Clay might' be elected President in his place."  A
gentleman who had accompanied General Taylor up
the Ohio, said that one day, while they were noticing
a remarkably located log cabin, the General remarked
that if he were to follow the dictates of his heart, he
would prefer to spend the remainder of his days in
that cabin, to living four years in the White House.
His leading idea was that he was really the servant
of the American people.
Among the ladies and gentlemen who had come
from Kentucky with the President elect were Colonel-James Taylor and Miss Taylor of Kentucky, Miss
Peyton of Louisiana, Mr. Christy, Mrs. Christy, Miss
Wickliffe and Miss Johnson, all of Kentucky. The
inauguration ceremonies took place in the usual order,
as often before described. About half-past one the new
President was duly installed in the executive palace,
with such a mass meeting gathered in front waiting for
admission, as is only to be seen on inaugural occasions.
The evening closed' with three balls; a grand one on
Judiciary Square, a military one at Carusi's, and one at
the National. The first presented a magnificent scene,
two-thirds of the dense crowd being ladies. The wax
lights displayed the sparkling of thousands of diamonds. All the foreign legations were present, some




INAUGURATION BALL.            423
covered with orders and glittering with jewels. Madame de Bodisco was magnificent in white satin embroidered with gold; over it a crimson velvet tunic,
with train, also embroidered with gold and studded
with diamonds.  Her head-dress of crimson velvet
blazed with jewels.  This dress was said to be the
one worn by her when presented to the Czar. She
was the only lady in the room who wore a. court
dress; the others appearing in: ball costume. The Russian minister's uniform was also elaborately splendid.
A wag described the scene: "Suddenly there was a
crash.'What's the matter?'- Only the contact of a
lady, whirled with all the enthusiasm which the merry
waltz and Gung'l's music combined inspire,'against an
unfortunate wight in~ the way.'Oh, my poor fan!
it's smashed to pieces!'.  Dear me! there goes half
my skirt!''Stop,-sir! stop a moment! You're pulling that lady's head. off!''Where's my bracelet?''There goes my bouquet!' etc.' Ain't it delightful?''What! do you think'it too crowded?' etc." At halfpast ten General' Taylor entered leaning on the arm
of the Mayor, and bowed on each side till. he reached
the: platform at' the: end of the room..' When. Mr.
Buchanan presented a number of ladies, the President
remarked," Ah,.:Mr. Buchanan, you always pick out
the prettiest' ladies."  c"Why, the truth is," was the
reply, "I: know that your taste  and. mine agree in
that respect."  Then the veteran said: "I have: been
so long among Indians and Mexicans, I hardly know
how to. behavemmyself, surrounded.by so'many lovely
women!"  Colonel and Mrs.'Bliss also yisited the ballroom. The crowd and heat were intolerable, and some




424        TAYLOR'S ADMINISTRATION.
of the men seemed trying to take a wax cast o. their
coats, under the perpetual stream from the candles.
General Taylor had counted on Mr. Crittenden as
a member of his cabinet having the utmost confidence in his counsel; but Mr. Crittenden declined
office. Of Mr. Crawford, the Secretary of War, no
mention had been made before his elevation to that
office. Mr. Clayton, the Secretary of State, had been
identified closely within the last two years, with the
most ultra policy of the whig party. It was said that
he entertained the design of building up a republican
party to supersede the present organization, based on
principles more in consonance with the advancing
spirit of the age. H-e was an able man, of popular
manners, with great political experience. Mr. Meredith possessed great talent, and there was every reason to believe he would be the ruling spirit of the
cabinet. His was a ripe, clear and vigorous intellect;
with a fascinating address, and a freshness of charace
ter preserved by few who are long connected with
party politics. H-le had all the attributes of mind and
manner calculated to give him ascendency in the cabinet. Mr. Preston, the Secretary of the Navy, had
been a respectable member of the House of Representatives. Mr. Ewing was a man of the strongest
party ties, very intolerant, and a decided advocate of
proscription. Mr. Johnson, Attorney-General, was a
very sharp, shrewd lawyer, better suited to his office
than the Senate. The main strength of the administration, amid these discordant members, was in General Taylor hipnself; while he avowedly knew little
of public affairs,




CHANGES IN PUBLIC AGENTS.       425
A change was announced, to be made in the publie agents abroad; ministers, charges, attaches, commissioners and consuls. A primary consideration with
the cabinet was the appointment of men competent
to maintain the honor and dignity of the United
States among European nations, without involving
the country in the war which then menaced the continent. William C. Rives, who had been American
Plenipotentiary at Paris under General Jackson, was
spoken of for the same mission. I-Ie was one of the
ablest statesmen in the country, and well fitted from
his experience, high talent, and extensive information, to sustain the character of the government in
any appointment. Not the least of his recommendations to the French government, was found in his attractive appearance, address, and manners; he being
admitted, even in the Old Dominion, to be as perfect
a gentleman as one of the ancient cavaliers. Mr.
Abbott Lawrence had been mentioned with reference
to a mission to England. The news of the death of
Major-General Gaines brought sadness to many hearts.
Soon followed the official announcement of the death
of James K. Polk. The President ordered the departments placed in mourning, and appropriate honors
were paid to the memory of the ex-President.
In the absence of Congress and in the heats of.
summer Washington presented a curious aspect,
dried up like a river dependent on the spring rains.
In utter stagnation it awaited the return of Congress,
and the strangers which December brought back to
the hotels and boarding-houses. The gossip was
freshened by a strange rumor that M. de Bodisco had




426        TAYLOR'S ADMINISTRATION,
been exiled to Siberia by the Emperor of Russia. It
brought his beautiful and magnificent wife on the
avenue to contradict the report. The arrival of Henry
Clay, in November, was an agreeable piece of intelligence. It was said that a wedding in Philadelphia in
part accounted for the presence of the sage of Ashland.'The parties were Mr. Becket and Miss Bayard.
After having recovered from the cholera, and being
bruised by the upsetting of a stage near Cumberland,
the immortal Harry came again, not as an old man of
seventy-two, bent, decrepit and trembling, but with
form erect, in the vigor of middle age, with the bewitching smile still playing about the corners of his
capacious mouth; the hat still slightly cocked, the
shirt-collar still erect; in short, the Harry Clay of
1826. Many thought he would grow fresher and
stronger till nominated for the Presidency in 1852.
When the President's house was again thrown open
to the public, late in November, it was found that
the east room was newly carpeted and re-decorated,
and illumined by gas jets from splendid chandeliers.
Before ten, the delegation of six Osage Indians, who
had been several weeks in Washington, came in to
bid farewell to their Great Father. They had been
quartered at the Western Hotel, where their King
lay part of the time covered in a bed on the floor, his
legs stuck against the mantel-piece, and a pipe in his
mouth, while the others sang and accompanied themselves with hollow gourds having gravel inside, or
squatted before the fire unincumbered with clothing
except the breech-cloth. The commissioner:of Indian
affairs had them dressed like white men, but getting




MR. AND MRS. FREMONT.         427
tired of the harness, they took it off before night, and
caught cold. At the President's levee they had their
broadcloth dress trimmed at the seams with lace, and
wore cocked hats.
Senator John C. Fremont was much talked of as
one of the most remarkable men of the day, his life
having' been a highly romantic piece of personal
history.' A few years before, he had come to Washington; from South Carolina, having received an appointment in the topographical bureau. He became
attached to one of Colonel Benton's daughters, the
celebrated and brilliant Jessie. - The young lady saw in
him the youthful hero, the enterprising engineer, and
the man of distinction and world-wide fame. After
their marriage the father took them to reside in his
house. At the close of this winter Mr. Fremont was
corning to the capital as Senator from the new State
of California, and was said to be the most popular
man in all that country. In appearance he was slender and very youthful; his face was marked by intelligence, and bore the lines of hardships sustained with
energy and perseverance.
There was an amusing scene in the Senate the day
Mr. Hunter made a speech against General Cass's
Austrian resolution. Though an eloquent and powerful speaker, Mr. IHunter seldom engaged in debate.
On this occasion he bore down on Generals Cass and
Foote, like an avalanche of rocks. They looked up
astounded, and finding they were really the persons
meant in the pouring out of the orator's sarcasms,
General Cass clutched his pen, and filled half a sheet
of paper with notes, which he held in his left hand,




428           TAYLOR'S ADMINISTRATION.
while with his right —his eyes resting  earnestly on
the speaker —he reached out for the sandstand. Instead of it, he caught hold of an inkstand full of ink,
which he poured all over his notes, his left hand, coatsleeve, vest, and pantaloons. The uniformly neat
and well dressed gentleman was a sight to behold!
Foote of course laughed at him; but Cass had his
revenge at the time Hale satirized General Foote.
The Senate was in a roar at his witticisms, but Foote
pretended not to have heard what had been said.
General Cass obligingly repeated all to him, shaking
with laughter as he did so.
"The new British minister was Sir Henry Lytton Bulwer. A satirist
asked: Where are the pigmies, the ephemerals, the corrupt politicians of the present day, contrasted with the illustrious trio of aged and
venerable statesmen, Clay, Calhoun and Webster! Calhoun's speech
in the Senate in March, 1850, created an excitement unprecedented.
The galleries were jammed. General Hamilton accompanied Calhoun
to his seat; Mr. Webster and others warmly grasped his hand. A letter dated March 21st, said:'John C. Calhoun is dying; a great in.
tellectual light is going out. With the exit of the great Carolinian the
sting of rivalry, which rankled against him in the bosoms of Clay, Webster and Benton, dies forever.'"
Franklin H. Elmore, successor of Calhoun in the
Senate, died in May at Washington.  For years he
had been one of the most prominent politicians of
South Carolina; he possessed a splendid intellect, and
all the elements of a great statesman. He was twice
elected to Congress from  Charleston district, but retired in 1842, and took the presidency of the bank of
South Carolina. On the election of Mr. Van Buren,
he was offered and declined, the appointment of minister to England. After Mr. Calhoun's death, he was




DEATH OF THE PRESIDENT.         429
called on by the governor of his native State to supply the vacancy, and accepted on condition he should
not be expected to serve another term. His wife was
a sister of Dixon H. Lewis of Alabama. Mr. Elmore
was about sixty when he died. He was perhaps- the
next greatest man in South Carolina to Mr. Calhoun,
the last so great that he was like the majestic oak
in the open field, which overshadowed and absorbed
every other shrub or tree, and prevented their growth.
For twenty years it had been political death for any
man in South Carolina to differ from Mr. Calhoun.
Preston and Legar6 had raised an opposition, and in
a year their opposition was crushed. The eloquent
McDuffie differed from him, and had not illness shelved
him the people would have done it. The accomplished
Pickens took opposition ground in one measure, and
he was heard of no more in political life. J. H. HIammond, who had been Governor of South Carolina, and
for some time an able and distinguished member of
Congress, was thought to resemble Calhoun. He was
a man of splendid talents and acquirements, a planter,
and devoted to the pursuit of agriculture.
On the 4th July, President Taylor and his cabinet
attended the celebration at the Washington Monument. The General, on his return home, ate dinner
with a keen appetite. The next evening he was ill,
and on the fourth day an attack of cholera morbus
was blended with a remittent fever which assumed
a typhoid form. A few hours brought on alarming
symptoms; and with a breaking up and collapse of
the whole system, the President sank till death closed
the scene. His corpse was laid out in the east room




430        TAYLOR'S ADMINISTRATION.
on a magnificent catafalque of black velvet, trimmed
with white satin and silver lace. The body was in a
lead coffin' enclosed in one of mahogany with silver
decorations.
All the departments and public buildings, with
many private houses, were hung in black.
The new President took the oath of the constitution in the House. General Scott arrived to- superintend the military arrangements for the funeral.
Zachary Taylor was said to be in his sixty-fifth year
at the period of his death. He was born in Orange
County, Virginia, November, 1784. His father, Colonel Richard Taylor, was a descendant of one of the
earliest settlers of the Old Dominion, and remarkable
for hardy and impetuous courage. He was one of
the original settlers of Kentucky, and lived on his
estate.near Lexington till his death.  Famous for his
desperate encounters with the Indians, he was a prominent man in civil life. At the fireside of such a
father, with an elder brother in the profession of arms,
Zachary was early disposed towards a military' life.
He entered the United States army as a lieutenant,
when only eighteen, and remained in the service
nearly forty years. In the war with Great Britain
of 1812, he rose to the rank of Captain. It 1832 he
was raised to the rank of Colonel, and the next scene
of his active service was in-Florida. His engagements had an important result in finishing the Florida
war. The appreciation of his services was marked by
the appointment of Brigadier-General. He was then
ordered to the Southern' Department.  Placed in
command of the "'army' of occupation," he entered




PRESIDENT TAYLOR'S CHARACTER.       431
on the duties which led to his subsequent series of
remarkable military exploits.  His services in the
Mexican war are matters of history that need not be
recapitulated. At its close he retired to his plantation at Baton Rouge.
President Taylor was acknowledged by the whole
country to be in the loftiest sense, patriotic, honest,
sincere, virtuous, and free from personal ambition.
His military glory no words could dignify or exalt.
He went to the grave with an enviable fame, leaving
a memory that will live in the hearts of his countrymen.
It was not till 1853 that Mrs. John Tyler's eloquent
reply to the appeal of the Duchess of Sutherland and
the ladies of England to the women of America, against
domestic slavery, was published. The lady drew a sad
picture of the condition of the poor and suffering class
in England.




XV.
FILLMORE'S ADMINISTRATION.
Mr. Fillmore's Mother a Woman of superior Intellect-Hereditary Virtue a Patent of Nobility-Appearance of Mr. Fillmore-His Public
Services and prominent Position in Congress —His noble CharacterHis Dignity and Urbanity as Vice-President-Accession to the Presidency —His Plan for the Extension of the Capitol-Various Exploring Expeditions sent out-Eminently combines the Requisites for a
great and able Chief Magistrate-Mrs. Henry L. Scott —Visit of
Kossuth to Washington- Dinner given him by the President —
Thirty-six Guests-Seward's Entertainment for him-Dancing of
Lola Montez at the Theater appreciated by Fashionable LadiesDeath of Henry Clay-Memoir of Mrs. Fillmore-Personal Appearance-Official Dinners every Week, and Morning Receptions- Mrs.
Fillmore's early Life-Romantic first Acquaintance with young Fillmore-Domestic Tastes of the lovely young Wife-Her Presidency
at the White House-Her Death in Washington.
MR. FILLMORE was no exception to the rule that distinguished men have generally had superior mothers.
His was a woman of high intellect, and refined culture,
possessing the graces that adorn social life.  She was
Miss Phebe Millard of Pittsfield, Mass.  Married at a
very early age, and taken to a pioneer's home, she
showed the judgment of an experienced matron in
aiding her husband and managing her domestic affairs.
Her son Millard was born in Locke, Cayuga County,
in 1800.  Descended from  a long line of virtuous and
patriotic American ancestors, his character was formed




DESCRIPTION OF MR. FILLMORE.      433
by the purest and best influences. "Hereditary virtue," says Irving, " gives a patent of innate nobleness
beyond all the blazonry of the Herald's College."
In 1830 Mr. Fillmore was described as of the medium stature, of light complexion and regular features,
and of a mild and benign countenance. His disposition was retiring and unassuming. Though young,
he had all the prudence, discretion and judgment of
an experienced man. His mildness and benignity of
temper were blended with immovable firmness, and
he was distinguished for rare and admirable mental
qualities.
As a debater in the Legislature, it was said of him:
"He never rises without attracting the attention of
all who are within the sound of his voice. His manner is good, his voice agreeable; he is mild and persuasive; his speeches are pithy and sententious, always free from idle and vapid declamation."  He was
elected to Congress in the autumn of 1832.
The twenty-seventh Congress was a very memorable
one. No presidential election had ever excited a deeper interest than that of 1840. Wide spread financial
distress had pervaded the country for the two or three
preceding years; business was in a state of stagnation,
and the public mind had become impressed with the
idea that the general embarrassment was due to political causes. Whether justly or unjustly, the party in
power was held in some measure responsible for the'condition of the country. The mighty uprising of the
masses by which the administration of Mr. Van Buren
was overthrown, not only elected a new President but
brought together a Congress entertaining political
27




434       FILLMORE' S ADMINISTRATION.
principles the reverse of those which had prevailed
during the last twelve years. The prominent position
assigned to Mr. Fillmore in this Congress, was a proof
of the confidence inspired by his previous career.
As financial difficulties had brought the new administration into power, it was its chief duty to devise
financial remedies. The highest mark of confidence
the whig party could bestow on any member of Congress, was to make him chairman of the Committee
of Ways and Means. Millard Fillmore was placed in
this responsible position, and acquitted himself in a
manner that won for him laurels which any statesman might be proud to wear. In 1842, Mr. Fillmore
was spoken of as standing in the same relation to the
government in the House of Representatives, that the
Chancellor of the Exchequer does to the government
of Great Britain in the House of Parliament. He:was the financial organ of the legislature; all bills
affecting the revenue originating in the House. Capacities of a high order were required to discharge the
duties of the post.
Mr. Fillmore was now described as "five feet ten
inches tall, stout and finely formed. His complexion
is light; his eyes are blue and lively; his forehead is
broad, and he has a handsome Grecian mouth. His
appearance would attract attention anywhere, as his
abilities qualify him for any station. He is always
composed, and all his acts are controlled by the dictates of his judgment. He is the incarnation of truth
and integrity. He would never raise hopes and then
blast them. He is frank, open, and manly. In public life and in private he is wvithout guile; pure and




FILLMORE AS VICE-PRESIDENT.        435
untarnished. His talents are of a high grade; he is
a sound thinker, and very sagacious; his judgment is
clear, and his emotions never override it; he is always
to be relied on, and whatever he undertakes he will
master. Ile belongs to that rare class whose merits are
developed with' every day's use; in whose minds new
beauties and new riches are discovered as they are
examined into. He has a high legal reputation, possesses great industry; is agreeable in conversation,
and his information upon general subjects is varied
and extensive. The queen city of the lakes may be
justly proud of so able a representative, so eminent
a citizen; of a statesman whose public career is so
bright and so full of promise."
In February, 1849, Mr. Fillmore resigned his office
as Comptroller of New York, and proceeded to Washington to assume the duties of the Vice-President.
Mr. Dallas, the late Vice-President, had been for some
time in the chamber, his snow-white hair and noble
figure attracting much attention. He occupied a seat
in front of the Secretary's table facing the Senators.
Presently he was observed to retire, and in a few
minutes was seen re-entering in company with Mr. Fillmore, whom he conducted to the chair of the Senate.
The oath of office was administered to him by the
president pro temrn. and then he delivered his brief
address in the calm and dignified manner for which
he was distinguished. While acting as Vice-President, Mr. Fillmore presided over the Senate with a
dignity and urbanity never surpassed.  Calhoun, in
1826, had announced to the Senate his opinion that
the Vice-President had no authority to call Senators




436       FILLMORE'S ADMINISTRATION.
to order for any violation of courtesy or transgression of the rules of debate.  Mr. Fillmore made a
speech in which he explained the reasons why he
thought it his duty to preserve decorum, and, if occasion should render it necessary, reverse the usage of
his predecessors. This determination met with the
warm approval of the Senate, who ordered Mr. Fillmore's speech to be entered at length on their journal.
On the 10th July, 1850, Mr. Fillmore was called to
take the oath as President. After the appearance of
the Senate in the hall of the House of Representatives, the President entered accompanied by the cabinet, the members remaining standing as a mark of
respect. The oath was administered by Judge Cranch.
The President, Cabinet and Senate then retired; and
the Speaker announced that he had received a message, which related to the funeral obsequies of Zachary Taylor. Mr. Fillmore's first annual message at
the opening of the next session of Congress, promulgated the general principles by which he would be
governed in his administration. This message was
admirable in style, national in its spirit, statesmanlike,
and a model of brevity and directness.
In 1851 it was necessary for the President to give
Congress a plan for the extension of the capitol. By
Mr. Fillmore's plan, two wings were to be added to
the previous edifice, connected with it by corridors.
Excavations for the foundation were immediately commenced, and the work was in sufficient forwardness
to allow the corner-stone to be laid on the 4th July.
This was done by the President's own hand, with imposing ceremonies, and amid a great concourse of




MRS. HENRY L. SCOTT.          437
people, who were eloquently addressed by Mr. Webster, the Secretary of State. The President was assisted in laying the corner-stone by the Grand Master
of the Masonic Grand Lodge, who wore the same
regalia and used the identical gavel which Washington had used fifty-eight years before, in laying the
corner-stone of the original edifice.
The various exploring expeditions to the Chinese
seas, the valley of the Amazon, the rivers of Africa,
etc.;, sent out under Mr. Fillmore's administration,
showed it to be characterized by enterprise and by a
salutary caution. He fully sympathized with the progressive spirit of the age, and his management evinced
his high qualities as a practical statesman.  Firm
when right was involved, bold when occasion demanded,
far-sighted respecting the consequences of measures,
quick to perceive where advantage could be gained
for the country, cool, sagacious, deliberate and inflexibly just, he combined more of the requisites for a great
and able Chief Magistrate than any other man known.
During Mr. Fillmore's administration the handsomest woman in Washington was Mrs. Henry L. Scott,
who presided over the General's house. She was a
blonde, with a clear, bright complexion, and a tall
form with a certain grandeur of presence that impressed all who saw her. She possessed uncommon
intellect with great sprightliness and noble qualities
of heart. In 1847 she was Mrs. Hamilton Holley,
and gave agreeable entertainments. She often presided at Mrs. Hamilton's receptions. She was pious
and charitable. She died in 1859.
The federal city was rather scant of amusements




438       FILLMORE'S' ADMINISTRATION.
at the beginning of 1851. There was a small theater,
and parties were given by members of the cabinet,
some of the foreign ministers, and an occasional member of Congress; and Jenny Lind's wildwood notes
had been heard.  Complaints were made that the
assemblies were costly, and made up of "the same set
of elderly ladies" in all "the glaring importance of
dress." The President's levees were voted monotonous and dull by those who had not novelty to enliven them in the round of the east room. The proprietors of one of the hotels organized a weekly hop
in the new ball-room, under the supervision of twenty
gentlemen managers and twelve lady patronesses.
All visitors had to be endorsed by one of those committees.  The President and cabinet attended the
first, and the diplomatic corps, the Supreme Court,
and Congress, were largely represented. At the one
given on the anniversary of the battle of New Orleans, Mr. Clay was the reigning favorite; more fascinating than beauty arrayed for conquest, more
charming to beauty than the most dashing military
dandy. The cabinet and the Supreme Court were
represented by Mr. Corwin and Judge Woodbury.
New York and Pennsylvania were sustained in the
department of belles, and the Carolinas and the far
West came up to the maintenance of their respective
sections. At eleven the company discussed a bounteous supper.
At the close of 1851, Louis Kossuth visited Washington. His party was received by a deputation and
conducted by two Senators to Brown's hotel; shortly
afterwards, the hero came out on the balcony and




DINNER TO KOSSUTH.           439
bowed to:the assembled crowd. The next day he
was presented to President Fillmore, at the White
House, and had a strictly private interview.  The
President gave him a dinner, for which thirty-six
covers were ordered. The Secretaries and the ladies
-twelve in all-three of the ladies belonging to the
President's family-the committees of the Senate and
House, the President of the Senate and Speaker of
the House, with Kossuth and his suite and a few
others, made up the number. The President had a
pleasure in showing attention to the Hungarian guest;
but officially he had to be governed by the proceedings of Congress. Crowds of visitors waited on Kossuth upon New Year's day. Kossuth asked Judge
Beale what State he represented. "Virginia," was
the answer. "The mother 6f States and of statesmen," said the Magyar. The members of Congress
then offered the hospitalities of their respective States.
There had been a fire in the beautiful room appropriated to the library of Congress, and a mass of
blackened rubbish lay under the west front of the
capitol-the ashes and cinders of some forty thousand
volumes, piled from five to eight feet high; the leaves
of the burnt books, in all languages, strewn about the
terrace I"thick as autumnal leaves in Vallambrosa."
Among the valuable works lost were the records of
the British Parliament from' the time of William the
Conqueror.
Mr. Seward gave an evening entertainment to Kossuth and his suite; and a Congressional banquet was
given to him at the National Hotel, three hundred
guests being present, including Hon. W. R. King,




440       FILLMORE'S ADMINISTRATION.
President of the Senate, Hon. Daniel Webster, Secretaries Corwin and Stuart, Judge Wayne of the supreme Court, General Houston, Mr. Seward, and
other distinguished men.  General Scott was not
there, being absent in Virginia. He was understood
to be dead set against intervention, and all foreign
emissaries whose business it was to involve the people in filibustering expeditions. The General was a
whig conservative of the old school. General Sam.
Houston dined in company with Kossuth, but escaped
in timne to avoid the responsibility of a speech. A
different kind of success was that of Lola Montez, the
theater being crowded on the first night of her appearance in Washington. The grace and elegance
of her dancing were appreciated by the fashionable
ladies. It was said that numerous calls were made
upon her by leading persons, but that she declined
receiving any one. The President, cabinet, diplomatic corps, members of Congress, and other distinguished persons were present at the entertainment
on board the Baltic.  Over two thousand persons
were on board. In the splendid saloons of the ship
a luxurious banquet was set out. Scores of elegantly
dressed ladies clambered through and admired the
ponderous machinery, bright as a mirror, and too
clean to soil the most delicate cambric.
Henry Clay breathed his last on the 29th of June,
1852, at his rooms in the National Hotel in Washington. He had been rapidly sinking for some days,
but his mind retained its clearness to the last.
Mrs. Fillmore in stature was above the medium
height; her form was symmetrical and remarkably




MRS. FILLMORE.             441
erect and graceful. Her eyes were of a light soft,blue: her hair was bright auburn, fine and silky, rippling from her forehead and hanging in natural ringlets. Her complexion was delicately fair and fresh.
Her face lighted up with a pleasant smile when she
was engaged in conversation, and her manner was
winning, though marked by a retiring modesty bordering on reserve.
It was a sad event to Mrs. Fillmore, as well as to
the nation, which so unexpectedly called her husband
to enter on the duties of the Presidency. She..-was
not able to close her house in Buffalo and join the
President till the October following the death of General Taylor. When the winter season opened, and
through succeeding ones, Mrs. Fillmore's health was
too fragile to allow her to enjoy the elevation to which
she had been so-unexpectedly raised. The fatiguing
ceremonies in which she was obliged to take part.
often exhausted her strength, and marred the pleasure she would have derived from social intercourse.
During the sessions of Congress, the President usually
gave an official dinner every week, to which members
of Congress and other dignitaries, with their wives,
were invited, without distinction of party.  In the
short session these official dinners were given twice a
week. Weekly morning receptions were held from
ten to twelve, and evening levees from eight to ten;
and at these Mrs. Fillmore was always present when
her health would possibly permit. At the evening
receptions a band of music played for the entertainment of the company, but no refreshments were offered.
In warm weather musical entertainments were given




442       FILLMORE'S ADMINISTRATION.
in the public grounds. During the'recess of Congress
the morning receptions were kept up, though not the
levees; and the Presidential dinners were less frequent, fewer guests being invited. It'was customary
for the President to receive visitors, but never to pay
calls; and although Mr. Fillmore gave dinners, he
never accepted invitations to any beyond one occasionally at the house of a cabinet minister. Mrs. Fillmore was debarred from making or returning calls by
the delicacy of her health, and that laborious duty
devolved upon her daughter. At all the public receptions and official dinner parties, however, she presided with great dignity and the demeanor of a highbred lady, whose intelligence and good sense were as
apparent as her unobtrusive moral excellence and
earnest piety.
Mrs. Fillmore's maiden name was Abigail Powers;
and she was born near the battle-ground of Bemis'
Heights, in Saratoga County, N. Y., in March, 1798.
Her father, Rev. Lemuel Powers, was a Baptist clergyman. His death in 1800 left his widow with limited
means and a large family, of which Abigail was the
youngest. When the little girl was but nine years
of age, her mother removed to Sempronius, Cayuga
County, where the child, being exceedingly bright
and fond of reading, early acquired an education. It
was her design, which she carried out, to devote herself to teaching; and by this she not only maintained
herself, but contributed to the support of her mother.
In this retired place she attended the same school
with a noble-hearted lad —young Millard Fillmorewith whom she soon formed a friendship founded on




K-,
~~~~~~F








DOMESTIC TASTES OF MRS. FILLMORE.   445
a similarity of tastes. He was then an apprentice to
the carding and cloth-dressing business. The mutual
regard between these young people grew and strengthened, and finally ripened into a love that lasted during their united life. At the age of nineteen young
Fillmore gave up this apprenticeship, and began the
study of law. He finished his legal course, and commenced practice in Buffalo. In - February, 1826, he
married Miss Powers at Moravia in Cayuga County,'and took -her to reside at Aurora in the County of
Erie.  Four years later they removed to Buffalo,
which continued to be their permanent home.
While it was the fortune of Mr. Fillmore to become
early involved in political life, his wife's retiring disposition and love of domestic life, caused her to shrink
from any share in his celebrity. The peace and quiet
seclusion of her own home were far dearer to her than
all the glitter, show and admiration that waited upon
the rising statesman, and might have made her an
object of attention. Her leisure hours were devoted
to books and to the cultivation of flowers, of which she
was passionately fond. She was tenderly devoted to
her children, and frequently joined them in their lessons; French being a favorite study. She was a lover
of music, and was never more happy than, when
listening to her daughter's playing the piano, while
her son sang. It was a delight and a pride to her
to witness the improvement of those on whom she
lavished such affectionate solicitude. Her son was
born in 1828; her daughter in 1832; but she survived her mother little more than a year.
As a wife also this lovely lady was tender and ex



446       FILLMORE'S ADMINISTRATION.
emplary. She never accompanied her husband to
Albany during the three years that he was a member of the Assembly; and in the eight years between
1833 and 1843, that he was in Congress, she went but
seldom to Washington. While in the capital she
entered moderately into the gayeties of the season;
but always returned with pleasure to her beloved
home and the quiet cares claimed by her young children. Hitherto her health had been good; but in
1842 the accidental sprain of her ankle, for want of
rest and care, caused her months of suffering and
confinement to her room, which seriously impaired
her general health. While her husband held the
office of comptroller of his State, her children being
absent at school, she accompanied him.o Albany;
remaining till he resigned his office and went to
Washington as Vice-President of the United States.
Then she returned to her home in Buffalo. Here she
was startled, in July, 1850, by news of the death of
President Taylor.
Probably the happiest day of her residence in
Washington, was the 3d of March, 1853, when the
official term of President Fillmore expired. A journey through the Southern States had been planned
for the renovation of Mrs. Fillmore's health; but she
was destined never to leave Washington alive. A
severe cold taken the day of Mr. Pierce's inauguration, settled on her lungs, and after great suffering
borne with Christian fortitude, terminated her life.
She died at Willard's hotel on the 30th of March, and
was taken home and buried in Forest Lawn cemetery
at Buffalo.




XVI.
PIERCE'S ADMINISTRATION.
Excitement at Pierce's Nomination-Delicate Health of Mrs. PierceHabits of the President Elect-Early Life and beautiful Character
of Mrs. Pierce-Her Devotion to the Duties of her Station-The
Accident that made her childless-Departure of Pierce for Washington-Webster, the private Secretary-General Pierce in New York,
and Evasion of his Pursuers-A thousand Visitors in Philadelphia
-His Cabinet-The last Night in Congress-Scene of the Inauguration-Sketch of General Pierce and the Vice-President-Secretary
Marcy —The other Secretaries-Entertainment given by the Brazilian Minister-Array of Beauty-Presidential and Cabinet Doings
anatomized at the Tea-tables-Judge Douglas and Beverly Tucker
-Diplomatic Dinner-Splendid Parties in Washington-Mrs. Jefferson Davis-The Belles and their Toilets-Grouping of the fair Representatives of the different Sections-Governor Aiken's grand Party
-Amusing Story of the British Minister -Marriage of Senator
Douglas-Mrs. Douglas-Stirring Scene on Thanksgiving Morning
General Houston-Reception at Secretary McClelland's-Senator
Butler, of South Carolina-Mrs. Guthrie's Party-Anecdotes.
THE nomination of Franklin Pierce, the democratic
candidate for the Presidency, created great excitement
in New  Hampshire and elsewhere.   The health of
Mrs. Pierce was delicate, and he was busy in closing
up his professional business.  His family consisted of
himself, wife, and son twelve years old.  His brother,
Henry D. Pierce, and his sister, the widow  of General
John  McNeil, were his nearest relations, and resided
at Hillsborough.  Major Benjamin K. Pierce, of the




448         PIERCE'S ADMINISTRATION.
army, was the oldest brother, but. had been dead several years.  Mrs. Pierce was the daughter of Rev.
Jesse Appleton, D. D., President of Bowdoin College.
She was born in Hampton, N. H., in 1806, and was
married to Franklin Pierce in 1834.
For years her health had been delicate and she
had secluded herself from general society. Her fine
natural endowments were developed by careful and
liberal culture, and the influences of her home associations were refining and elevating. Her tastes were
of exceeding delicacy and purity; and she appreciated the beautiful in nature and art. She shrank
with extreme sensitiveness from public observation.
Those who noted her in the midst of the undesired
duties and responsibilities of her public station,
claimed for her an unsurpassed dignity and grace,
delicacy and purity. A Christian home was quietly
maintained, in the midst of public life.
The private Secretary said of Mrs. Pierce: "'She
was a very remarkable woman. To a careful, early
formal education were added accomplishments of an
extremely rare order. Her taste was faultless. If I
were to say in what she was most striking, it would
be that no one, observing her, could fail to see that
she was a lady by birth, education and habit of life."
She died in December, 1863, at Andover, Massachusetts.
General Pierce himself bore with perfect equanimity the news of his elevation to the highest office in
the people's gift. He was the only calm and self-possessed man in Concord the night of its arrival; but,
after receiving the victorious bulletins with scarcely a




SETTING OUT FOR WASHINGTON.        449
change of countenance, he quietly retired. A letter
said, "His habits are plain and unostentatious. His
practice yields him a large income, and he is generous to a fault. It is said in Concord that he will
spend his Presidential twenty-five thousand every
year."
A deplorable accident that occurred on the Boston
and Maine Railroad rendered childless the Chief Magistrate elect in the hour of his triumph. The car in
which General Pierce, Mrs. Pierce and their son happened to be passengers, was thrown off the track and
precipitated down a steep embankment, making a
complete turn-over in its descent. General and Mrs.
Pierce and ten or twelve others were severely but
not dangerously injured. But when the father found
his child, the boy was dead. This dreadful affliction
overtook him suddenly, when the sky was brightest,
and when the hopes and aspirations of a great nation
had centred in him. The child had been called Benjamin, in honor of his brave grandfather.
On the 14th of February General Pierce left his
residence in Concord for the national capital. He
had been a public man for nearly twenty-five years,
and for much of that time the most influential man in
New Hampshire. Possessing all those generous and
noble attributes which never fail to win the regard
and lasting confidence of an intelligent people, he
early received and always retained a popularity based
on so solid a foundation that nothing could impair it.
Just in all his conduct, generous to a fault, the soul
of honor, liberal in his views, possessing as kind and
noble a heart as ever warmed a true man's breast or




450        PIERCE'S ADMINISTRATION.
prompted to chivalrous deeds, and in his constant intercourse with the people ever exhibiting those traits
of character, it was not strange that he had won and
retained the highest respect of all classes. He select.
ed Mr. Sidney Webster as his private secretary. This
relation to a President, being strictly confidential, could
be properly filled only by a gentleman of education,
discretion, honor and personal accomplishments.- Mr.
Webster was' a native of New Hampshire, the son of
Caleb Webster, and the nephew of General Peaslee;
he had been thoroughly educated, and was a lawyer
of experience, with brilliant prospects. They came
quietly from. Boston to New York, and took lodgings
at the Astor House.
Before the public knew of the arrival, General
Pierce had taken breakfast, his companions being
Governor Seymour of Connecticut, and Major Kimball, both of whom had fought by his side in the
Mexican war. Meanwhile, politicians, office-hunters,
and curious people crowded the halls and corridors
of the hotel. One or two only had noticed the commanding figure and intelligent countenance of the
gentleman in mourning, accompanied by his secretary
and a single servant, who had driven to the hotel
from the New Haven cars. His luggage had an appearance of severe republican simplicity, ",a couple
of old hair trunks which might have been the property of a veteran of 1812, and two portmanteaus
scarcely less venerable in appearance."  The whole
army of waiters hardly sufficed to carry up the cards
and notes presented by persons who "had done signal
service- for General Pierce and the democratic party




ESCAPE OF THE PURSUED.         451
in the late Presidential election."  But instead of
holding parley with the crowd, the General privately
made his exit, accompanied by Sergeant O'Neil, for
the purpose-of visiting the widow of the late General
Worth, then staying on Governor's Island. Fortunately the General's person was not known, and he arrived unmolested at the Battery. There he took a
boat for the island; but the small craft was nearly
upset by the swell of the sea, and the party narrowly
escaped being drowned. The sentry refused to allow
the strange visitor to land at the island, unprovided
with an order, and presented his bayonet in a menacing manner. When informed that his visitor was the
President elect, he was astonished beyond measure,
never imagining that a person of so much importance
would come in a manner so unostentatious.
After a somewhat lengthened visit to Mrs. Worth,
the President returned in a small boat, and found a
formidable and increasing crowd of office-seekers collected at Whitehall to await the landing. Sergeant
O'Neil espied the harpies, and it was immediately determined to outmanoeuvre them; so the boat was
pulled to the north side of the Battery. The crowd
ran up Broadway to intercept their victim, supposing
he would take that route; but on landing, the pursued stepped into a carriage, directing it driven rapidly through West, Washington, and other obscure
streets, to the Astor House.  A tremendous multitude was now assembled, and a deputation from a
committee came to enquire if the General could receive that body. He declined, as he was traveling
privately, and had made up his mind to receive no
28




452        PIERCE'S ADMINISTRATION.
cornmittees; though he was willing to receive gentlemen who called as individuals.  A number visited
him, among them Governor Seymour of New York,
and John'Van Buren. At three o'clock, wearied and
worried, the General retired, and got away secretly
in the afternoon train for Philadelphia; the brakeman raising two flags at the back of the rear car, the
one set apart for the General and his friends.
It was determined by Mrs. Pierce to remain'in Boston till after the inauguration. The President's party
stopped at the Merchant's Hotel in Philadelphia, and
the next morning General Pierce received about a
thousand visitors. It had been suggested that James
Guthrie of Louisville, Ky., would probably receive a
cabinet appointment from President Pierce. He was
a man of strong mind, great energy of character, and
untiring industry; a leader of the democracy of the
State. In feeling and interest he was identified with
the growth and prosperity of the Mississippi Valley.
To commanding talents and an intimate acquaintance with the wants and resources of the whole
country, he united urbane and prepossessing manners.
James Campbell of Pennsylvania, was also spoken of
as one of the cabinet. He was Attorney-General of
the State; had been a judge of one of the Philadelphia courts, and was universally admitted to be an
honest, upright, able, learned and popular man. At
this time he was young, and seemed destined to become one of the most distinguished men of the age.
Htis was an active spirit, cool, calm, and clear, and his
warmth of heart was equal to his energy, balanced,
too, by discretion and sagacity.  He had a happy




THE LAST NIGHT.             453
facility in adapting himself to others. He was a bold
uncompromising democrat and proved himself by
pen and voice a true champion of popular rights; a
friend to civil and religious freedom.
On the 24th February President Fillmore and General Pierce, with two or three of the Secretaries, and
many officers, visited the caloric ship Ericson at Al —
exandria. The invention was exhibited and explained
to them, and the naval gentlemen expressed great
admiration of the wonderful machinery. A splendid
carriage made in the French caleche style, and light
bay horses, were presented by the Boston people to
General Pierce.
The last night in Congress this year-that of the
3d March-saw a rush and crush and confusion within and without the capitol till the small hours of
morning. When the votes were called, the sleepers
on the sofas and in the side-rooms were drummed up.
President Fillmore was signing bills till after midnight.
The city was in an uproar with bands of music, rockets
and artillery, and wandering strangers with carpet
bags were to be seen at every turn.  On the morning of March 4th, the capitol swarmed to overflowing.
Hundreds had slept in its warm passages and in the
rotunda, lying down in their cloaks, while thousands
had walked the streets all night. On the way to the
capitol, General Pierce stood erect in the carriage,
with President Fillmore by his side, surrounded by
marshals and bowing to cheers and the waving of
handkerchiefs.  The foreign ministers, in splendid
carriages, with full court dresses, added to the pageant.
An immense staging was erected in the eastern front




454         PIERCE'S ADMINISTRATION.
of the capitol, where the oath of office was administered and the address delivered. In taking the oath,
General Pierce said, " I solemnly affirm," raising his
right hand and holding it aloft. As he stood with
head uncovered and lifted hand, the spectators also
uncovered, even in the snow that was falling. Pierce
was undoubtedly an effective and graceful speaker.
The ladies were in ecstasies, and some climbed upon
the pediments of the columns of the capitol, to their
no small danger. On the completion of the address,
the procession again formed, and proceeded along the
avenue, escorting the new President to the White
House. Great numbers waited on President Pierce,
and the evening closed with balls and other entertainments.
At a crowded reception given by President Pierce,
some amusing scenes occurred with the office-seekers.
One ambitious fellow stepped up with the preparatory
remark: "I'm an applicant for office."  "Glad to see
you, sir," was the reply: "good morning," and off
glided the President. Some had their papers in their
hands ready for presentation; but Sergeant O'Niel
managed to get possession of them before they could
reach their destination. One applicant made out to
thrust his memorial into the President's hands, but it
Bwas dropped like a hot coal. When the Mayor of
Baltimore and a deputation came up, and the worthy
civic functionary had just cleared his throat for a forinal address, General Pierce, too quick for him, begged
the pleasure of shaking hands with all the delegation,
and thus escaped the infliction of the oration.
Franklin Pierce was born at Hillsborough, New




EMINENT STATESMEN.            455
Hampshire, in 1804. Ile was the youngest man who
had been yet elected to the Presidency. In 1833 he
took his seat as a member of Congress. In 1837 he
was elected a Senator, but resigned his seat ill 1842.
IHe was esteemed one of the most eminent lawyers
in New Hampshire. In the war with Mexico he enrolled himself as a private soldier; but the President
sent him a colonel's commission, and in 1847 he was
advanced to the rank of brigadier-general. He wished
to decline the nomination to the Presidency in 1852.
The office he would not seek was conferred upon him
by the voice of the people.
William Rufus King, the Vice-President, was born
in North Carolina in 1786. At this time he was sixtyseven, and in precarious health. He removed to Alabamna in 1818; was chosen one of the first United
States Senators, and continued a member of that body
for over twenty-four consecutive years. He accepted
the mission to France offered him by President Tyler.
In 1848 he was again Senator from Alabama, in place
of Arthur Bagby. In 1850 he was chosen President
pro tem. of the Senate, Vice-President Fillmore having succeeded to the Presidency. He was considered
one of the champions of Southern State rights. His
residence was at Selma, on the Alabama River, and
he never was married.
William Larned Marcy, the new Secretary of State,
was a native of Massachusetts, and in his sixty-seventh
year at this time. On the organization of that potent and secret association called "the Albany Regency," Mr. Marcy became one of the most trusty
and confidential members and advisers of its head,




456         PIERCE'S ADMINISTRATION.
Martin Van Buren. He was Secretary of War under
Mr. Polk, and his ability as a writer, tactician and
statesman was generally admitted. Robert McClelland, the Secretary of the Interior, was a native of
Pennsylvania, but resided in Michigan, of which State
he was elected Governor in 1851. Jefferson Davis,
the Secretary of War, was a native of Kentucky, but
removed in early life to Mississippi. His military education was received at West Point. In 1847, he was
elected United States Senator. In person he was of
medium size. He was forty-five years of age, and the
last man one would imagine a "fire-eater," being prim
and smooth-looking, with a precise manner, a stiff,
soldierly carriage, and an austerity at first forbidding.
As a speaker he was clear, forcible and argumentative;
his voice clear and firm. Caleb Cushing, AttorneyGeneral, was the author of "Reminiscences of Spain,"
and 1"Historical and Political Review of the Revolution in France," which appeared in 1830. He commenced' public life as a friend of John Quincy Adams,
was one of the Justices of the Supreme Court of
Massachusetts, and was known as a distinguished politician and eminent scholar. Cushing, too, had served
in the Mexican war, and won the rank of BrigadierGeneral. He was at this time fifty-three, and was
tall and slender, with dark complexion. It created
something of a sensation-the discovery that General Cushing was the only man in.the cabinet who
could speak another than his native language. At a
diplomatic dinner given by M. de Bodisco, the Attorney-General surprised the distinguished party by conversing in French with M. Le Compte de Sartiges, in




CHANGES IN THE CAPITAL.         457
Spanish with Don Calderon de la Barca, in Dutch
with Baron Testa, in German with Baron von Gevolt,
in Portuguese with De Figaniere, and in unexceptionable Tuscan with the representative of the two
Sicilies. The Secretary of State figured in tolerable
English only. Mr. John Slidell, of New Orleans, was
nominated as minister to Central America. The last
executive levee of the season was given on the 24th
March.
On the death of Mrs. Fillmore -March 30th-the cabinet council was suspended, and all public offices were
closed by order of the President. At the motion of
Mr. Seward, the Senate adjourned. The President addressed a tribute of condolence to his bereaved predecessor. It was understood that the deceased lady
would be taken to Buffalo for interment. The wife
of Hon. Lewis Cass died in Detroit on the same day.
Major-General Scott went to New York, and in his
absence the furniture of his house in Washington was
advertised for sale. Dr. Kane of the Arctic exploring
expedition, and G. P. R. James, the novelist, were also
visitors to the capital, Dr. Kane preparing for his last
Arctic expedition. The death of Vice-President King
brought a gloom over Washington towards the last
of April. He had reached his home in Alabama.
Sergeant O'Neil's departure from the White House
was a severe loss to the President, whom he relieved from much unnecessary annoyance. In November General Cass engaged a suite of apartments
at Willard's, for the winter, intending to bring his
daughter, keep a carriage, &c. This was a great
change from *the plain manner of life observed by




458        PIERCE'S ADMINISTRATION.
the General for several years in Washington. In
1854, Lieutenant Bodisco, a nephew of the late M. de
Bodisco, an attache of the Russian Legation, was recalled to St. Petersburg by his government.
During the winter of 1854 diplomatic balls, though
usually the most elegant and not the least numerous
in Washington, had been discontinued till the 24th
March, when the Brazilian minister gave the first entertainment of the season, in honor of the birthday
of the Emperor of Brazil. Don Calderon de la Barca
had given delightful soirees, at which all the beauty
of Washington was gathered. M. de Sartiges, the
French minister, previous to his marriage, had also
given a large ball. But this season had seen no cards
issued by the diplomatic corps. Fifteen hundred invitations were issued by "Le Ministre du Brazil et
Mme. de Carvalho Moreira," and all the fashionable
part of Washington was in a delightful state of excitement.  Some dragons of propriety whispered
that it was Lent, and Friday at that; but their murmurs were lost in the tumult of satisfaction. Was
not the Brazilian minister a Catholic? and did he not
know what was proper! The house was one that had
been occupied by the Chilian minister, and afterwards by Mr. Crampton, the British minister; and
was admirably adapted for an entertainment. All
the rooms on the first floor were thrown open, forming an elegant suit of six, leading into each other.
The halls and rooms were filled with exotics, and the
whole house was brilliantly lighted with gas. At
the door, servants in rich scarlet liveries ushered the
guests into the disrobing apartments up stairs. Mad



THE BRAZILIAN MINISTER!S PARTY.    459
ame de Carvalho Moreira received her guests in the
center parlor. She was dressed in blue and white
brocade, with feathers in her hair. By her side stood
the minister and his brother, Mr. Andrada, the Secretary of Legation, dressed in full court costume. The.
ball-room was farther on, running the whole length
of the house. A long room was fitted up at the back
of the house, communicating with all the others, and*
filled with tables where the waiters dispensed refreshments during the evening. Besides the Count de
Sartiges and Mr. Crampton, General Almonte, the
Mexican minister, was there; also Chevalier Halseman, the Austrian minister; Baron Grabon, the act.
ing Prussian; Chevalier George de Sebbern, minister
of Sweden and Norway; Senior Don Jose de Marcoleta, Nicaraguan minister; Senior de Coma, Peruvian,
&c. But few Senators or members were present;
among them Judge Douglas and Senator Brodhead;
of the cabinet only Jefferson Davis and Dobbin. But
the array of beauty was unrivalled. Mrs. McClelland
was becomingly dressed in straw colored brocade.
Madame Alnonte wore blue brocade, sparkling with
diamonds. Mrs. Aiken of South Carolina was superb
as usual. It was the first time the appearance of
Hon. James Buchanan's beautiful niece, Miss Lane,
was publicly noticed.
While the social ascendency of Mrs. Roosevelt in
Washington is noticed, justice requires the mention of
her young friend and connection, Mrs. Henry Butterfield. This lady was Miss Mary Roosevelt Burke of
New York. Her exquisite beauty, grace and accomplishments, youthful as she was, rendered her a belle




460         PIERCE'S ADMINISTRATION.
whenever she appeared. After her marriage to Mr.
Butterfield she went to reside in Paris, where she
was a distinguished favorite in the court society. The
portrait represents her in a dress arranged with her
own artistic taste; the tiara of superb diamonds suiting well her style of loveliness. She died in Paris
after some years' residence.
While residing in the executive mansion, Mrs.
Pierce never made her own sorrows a reason for
any change in the accustomed routine of public affairs, social or official. Although of course with no
heart for such things during the early portion of the
administration of her husband, she considered it her
duty to do every thing in that regard, which had been
done before, or which her social position required.
For years the established routine of the White House
had been a morning reception and an evening reception each week during the session of Congress. These
were never intermitted, and Mrs. Pierce invariably
"received" with her husband, unless too ill; often
when few could have borne up against her physical
suffering. In addition, during the session, General
and Mrs. Pierce gave every week a state dinner to
which thirty-six persons were invited. Besides, there
was rarely a week-day that they dined alone; the
guests averaging from three to twelve. Indeed,."public gayety" at the White House from 1853 to
1857, was never better known.
Superficial persons who attended the receptions at
the White House might mistake the unrivalled grace,
dignity and sweetness of Mrs. Pierce's manner, for
the result of her great sorrow. But they were in




:f
r'!..................~~








ANECDOTE OF TUCRER.           463
error. The absence of everything like bustle or
hurry, and the presence always of repose and gentleness in her bearing, were things innate and inbred,
without which she would not have been the lady of
refinement she was.
A letter dated in November, 1855, says that at the
tea-tables in Washington the doings of the President
and cabinet were anatomized, and hands were held
up at the grandeur of an aristocratic democracy; ultra style prevailing at court ceremony and retinue
beyond all that had gone before. "Strangers are
crowding in already. The new Spanish minister and
many others are making themselves comfortable for
the winter. Escalante does not come from the old
worn out families of Spain, from which have been
hitherto chosen their representatives at foreign courts.
He belongs to the new school. Our wealthy banker,
Mr. Corcoran, will be here soon with his daughter;
above all, Rachel will soon be here. The maids in
hiring themselves for the season, require to be allowed time to attend to their French studies; and
many of them, on being asked their names, answer'Rar-char-el' with a sweeping curtsy.'  "They tell
a good joke of Tucker, who is said to be clever at
repartee. The'little giant' one day, in one of his
free and easy moods, marched up and affected to lean
familiarly on Tucker's shoulder; saying to him jocosely;'Bev. when I get to be President, what shall
I do for you, old boy?''Do?' replied Tucker,' why,
put your arm on my shoulder in as kind a mood as
you do now, and ask me the same question then.'
Douglas laughed heartily."




464         PIERCE S ADMINISTRATION.
A new minister from Mexico appeared in the place,
of General Almonte —Colonel Robles, a gentleman of
accomplished and scientific education, of talents and
ample fortune. Though not more than forty years
of age, he held a deservedly high military rank. His
appointment at this time to a responsible mission, indicated a fusion of all parties who opposed and were
punished by Santa Anna.
The guests at a diplomatic dinner given early in
the following season by the President, at which Mrs.
Pierce presided, were Mr. Crampton and Secretary
Lumley, representatives of England, M. and Madame
Boileau of France, Mr. and Madame Stoeckl of Russia, Senior Almonte of Mexico, Mr. and Mrs. Marcoleta
of Nicaragua, Mr. and Mrs. Sibbern of Sweden, Sein"or
Escalante, Secretary of Legation of Spain, Don Adrada and wife of Brazil, M. de Gerelt and secretary of
Prussia, M. Bochebencer of Belgium, Mr. Schleider of
Bremen, Senior Osma of Peru, Mr. Molina of Costa
Rica, Mr. Winsrea of Naples, Mr. Hulsemann of Austria, with General Thomas, Under Secretary of State,
and Sidney Webster. At one of the President's levees,
in January, Senator Hale of New Hampshire, who
had taken occasion some time before to lampoon the
President from his seat in the Senate, called with
thousands of others to pay his respects to the Chief
Magistrate. With his face wreathed in smiles and a
lovely woman on his arm, he approached his Excellency in the blue room in the presence of a crowd of
spectators. General Pierce received the lady with
marked courtesy, and, having done so, he turned upon
his heel, right-about face, presenting the New Hamp



CLOSE OF THE CARNIVAL.          465
shire Senator with a full view of his back. The tableau created not a little amusement.
In spite of political disorganizations, dancing and
parties became more popular than ever this winter.
The President's levees and receptions by the secretaries alternated with "c hops " and " grand affairs " at
the different hotels. Mr. Buchanan was expected to
return from the mission to England in February, Mr.
Dallas being appointed his successor.  There were
many "grand features" in the way of parties, brightened by elegant women from all parts of the Union.
One at Mrs. Parker's was particularly noticed, the
Misses Parker appearing among the most beautiful
and accomplished. Another brilliant party was given
by Mrs. Wood, the daughter of General Taylor. The
Legislature. of Maryland gave a grand ball at Annapolis, the 4th February. In quickness, fluency of
speech, decision, firmness and dignity, Mr. Banks excelled, and was on the whole an admirable Speaker,
sustaining the high reputation he had established in
Massachusetts as a presiding officer.
The carnival season closed early in February with
unusual brilliancy and gayety. A reception given by
Mrs. Jefferson Davis was attended by the most elegant and fashionable of the court circle; the lady
hostess appearing to great advantage, celebrated as
she was for being one of the most superior women in
the country. Mrs. Jefferson Davis was Miss Varina
Howell, the daughter of a merchant of Natchez. She
was married in that city. She was a brunette, with
dark, fine eyes, and was very Spanish looking. Another superb party was given at Hon. A. C. M. Pen



466        PIERCE S ADMINISTRATION.
nington's. At the great annual ball the wife of Senator Weller of California wore a black brocade silk,
with flowers and diamonds. Mrs. Crittenden, ever
the impersonation of gentle grace; the dark-eyed
Miss Mechlin, exquisitely dressed, Mrs. S. P. Havens
and her fair daughter Minnie of New York, and Mrs.
George Parker, with two lovely daughters, drew general attention. The beautiful Mrs. Webb, daughterin-law of James Watson Webb, attracted much attention. She was attired in white watered silk. The
celebrated Mrs. Coventry Waddell, wearing white
moire antique, with diamonds, was universally admired; also Mrs. Montgomery Blair; and Mrs. Coke,
the daughter of Secretary Guthrie, and Mrs. Pope, his
niece, the greatest favorites in Washington. Another
niece was the lovely Miss Mary Tyler of Kentucky.
She was the object of marked attention. Mrs. Reverdy Johnson and her two daughters were surrounded
by distinguished statesmen and Senators. Miss Woodbury, daughter of Judge Woodbury of Massachusetts,
received the homage accorded to a distinguished belle
of Washington; also Miss Riggs of the same city;
and the lovely blonde, Miss Beal, and the beautiful
brunette, Miss Kecouver. Miss Belle Cass-the gifted
and accomplished, the elegant and stately-was dressed in black silk, with trimmings of lace and jet, and
diamond ornaments. The charming Mrs. Lindsay, a
descendant of the author of the song "Auld Robin
Gray," was there; with Mrs. Charles King, the wife
of the President of Columbia College, New York,
and her daughter Mrs. Gracie; the wife of Senator
Trumbull of Illinois; the wife of Judge Gilchrist, and




REPRESEN'TATIVE BEAUTIES.        467
a host of others. Among the distinguished gentlemen
were General Sam. Houston, Hon. Mr. Banks, Secretary Guthrie, Lieutenant Lowell, of the Arctic expedition, Sidney Webster, Marshal Hoover, Senator Toucey,
Hon. Reverdy Johnson, Judge Gilchrist, of the court
of claims, and others too numerous to mention.
A spectator found in each beauty the fit representative of her home. "'Yonder flits the bland mannered
Kentucky belle, her figure so embonpoint, her face
so radiant; her gossamer skirts falling like spray from
her white satin bodice, and looped with fresh flowers.
Then floating with elastic step comes the fair Georgian,
wearing a coronet studded with pearls and rubies.
Here the lithe figure of a belle from Mississippi glows
in the foreground. Tyrian dyes could not give a
brighter tint to her skirts, which she manages with
the grace of a Lady Constance; her dark auburn
hair girded with a band of emeralds and diamonds.
There is the vivacious and intelligent representative
of Massachusetts, in white satin tastefully trimmed
with gold blonde and looped with orange blossoms;
and the placid one of Philadelphia, sensitive, modest
and graceful; wearing a tiara of diamonds on her
head, while her full shoulders are graced with a cape
of Spanish point lace, disclosing in front a chain of
diamonds that blaze in a stream of light about her
neck; her dress a rich claret-colored silk trimmed
with tulle, with white satin under-robe. Passing
down the gay throng is the statuesque Baltimorian,
her queenly form robed in green and white brocade,
trimmed with white tulle and blonde; her dark hair
parted in glossy waves over her brow, where rested




468        PIERCE'S ADMINISTRATION.
a wreath of green and white May blossoms blended
with emeralds and diamonds. There too was the
bright-eyed Buckeye, than whom none was more coy,
nor had a face more fair; the rustic, artless daughter
of Down East; the buxom Green Mountain maid, her
motion as crude as her cheeks were ruddy; the New
Hampshire prude of some forty summers, lisping regardless of Murray; the flirting blonde of Washington; the gracious Virginian, with features classic and
serene, and the daisy-like daughter of Connecticut,
with mild and measured laugh. Then came the imperious Carolinian, with stately step, face of Grecian
mould, dark languishing eyes and Ion-like expression.
Nor must be omitted the matronly mother of the old
school, and her two bouncing daughters, whose rich
Dutch blood does now and then make riot at the
round table."
Governor Aiken of South Carolina, gave a splendid
party early in March; and the ball at the National
hotel, was a grand affair. Senators Crittenden, Douglas, Hale, Jones, Weller, &c., were at the ball; also
General Cass, General Houston, the Secretaries and
-Speaker Banks, with many other distinguished persons, and ladies of high repute in the fashionable
world. One of the most interesting incidents was the
debut of Horace Greeley in a quadrille. His Terpsichorean feats were the theme of general admiration.
An amusing story went the rounds that Mr. Crampton, the British minister, had endeavored to satisfy
the public mind as to his permanency in official position, by employing a perfect train of coal-carts, engaged all day in carting wood and coal to his resi



MARRIAGE OF JUDGE DOUGLAS.        469
dence on the heights of Georgetown. The great
Presidential battle of this year resulted in the election
of James Buchanan.
Judge Douglas came to Washington in November,
1856, to be united to a lady who had been for some
time the belle of the city. Miss Cutts belonged to
one of the oldest families in Virginia. She was a
Catholic, and the marriage was appointed to take
place in the Catholic church. Senators Slidell and
Toucey were in the capital in November in fine health
and spirits, and were looked on as members of the
future cabinet, and treated with corresponding deference and courtesy. Harry Hibbard was also there,
spending most of his time at the executive mansion,
and in conference with President Pierce. A gay
winter was anticipated; the short session preceding
an inauguration being usually very brilliant in social
matters.
It seems that a Buffalo hatter sent for the measure
of Mr. Buchanan's head; also that some of the chivalry of Charleston had desired to make him a present
of a grand carriage. But the President elect could
not fail to remember that when certain public-spirited
citizens of Boston got up a magnificent carriage, and
presented it to Mr. Pierce,-almost every subscriber
to that carriage put in for a fat office. On Thanksgiving evening, 1856, Washington presented a gay
and stirring scene; the dwellings in the principal
streets being illuminated, and the balustrades lined
with spectators; the scene closing with fireworks, in
honor of the victory in Buchanan's election. General
Houston "ties his neck-cloth in a very clumsy bow,
29




470         PIERCE'S ADMINISTRATION.
and wears a tiger-skin vest, as if for an Arctic expedition.  His face is almost covered with menacing
whiskers of iron gray; and such shaggy and threatening brows overhang his eyes, that one dreads to
look whit kind of eyes they are." A spectator in the
gallery remarked, in January: "That small, delicate,
and very youthful figure seated near the Senator
from South Carolina, has, during the brief time he
has been here, made a marked impression. His position, as he listens to the Speaker, with one hand
behind his ear, indicates that his hearing is imperfect.
Mr. Pugh is the youngest man in the Senate."
The opening reception of the season came off at the
residence of Secretary McClelland, in January. The
hostess, a very beautiful woman, with a manner of
quiet elegance, was dressed in a rose-colored robe
edged with white plush. Her niece was a fair girl
with joyous eyes and heavy masses of chestnut ringlets
shading her face. The radiant smile of Mrs. Slidell,
wife of the Senator from Louisiana, attracted many
admirers. Her plainly parted hair was encircled by
brilliant diamonds. There was an animation, a fascination in her conversation rarely seen equalled.
"The abandon with which she speaks, the grace of
her gestures, excite a perpetual interest, and leave
a delightful impression. About eleven, the silvery
head of the Senator from South Carolina, Judge Butler, appeared.  He seemed to infuse new life into
the circles he passed through, and one might trace
his progress by the livelier movements and more
mirthful laugh that followed him like the bubbling
wake of a ship."  "There, too, might be seen the




SENATOR BUTLER.            471
bachelor member from North Carolina in full dress,
from kid gloves to French boots. How many smiles
this gentleman has had wasted on him! and yet he
contrives to dodge the whole artillery. Towering
head and shoulders above all the world, we observed
the witty member from Georgia, Mr. Cobb, who is
expected to say what nobody else has a right to say,
and it is all chargeable to a peculiar development of
the organ of mirthfulness."  Senator Andrew Pickens
Butler was conceded to be the most unique and original intellect in the:Senate.  His face, though not
handsome, was sturdily expressive, with massive features and "troubled, streaming, silvery hair, that
looked as if it had been contending with the blasts
of winter. His was the face of one difficult to lead
and impossible to drive, with abilities which gave him
a towering eminence. His power as a speaker stood
acknowledged in the admiration of both Houses.
Like all men of impetuous impulse, he was very
restless; one moment pacing to and fro the space
behind the Speaker's desk, another giving the grasp
of his hand to some younger Senator, the next taking
active part in the debates of the day. He seemed to
hold the same preeminence in the Supreme Court as
in the Senate. The moment a question was submitted
to him, his mind instinctively applied all the great
principles. He went through the most difficult processes of thought with the ease and familiarity of
ordinary discourse.  Venerable for his years and
abilities, he possessed a dignity of mind that rendered
him infinitely superior to mere party spirit. He was
of a frank and generous temperament, an admirer of




472         PIERCE'S ADMINISTRATION.
every kind of excellence, with heart as warm as his
intellect was ample. Seated near Senator Butler is
a slight, slender figure, a combination of the poet and
politician in appearance. This is the young Senator
from Alabama, Mr. Clay, known as a rising statesman.
In debate he is noted for classic elegance, in contrast
with the harsher style of the Senator from Illinois, as
a Grecian temple to the grim bleakness of a Methodist
chapel.  State rights is Mr. Clay's political pet, and
with it he is as closely amalgamated as a Smyrna fig
to its fellow-fig in its drum. IHe cultivates it as a
favorite plant-waters it, prunes it and supports it
with sticks.  WVhenever this subject comes up, he
seems inspired;'State rights' is his department, as
much as the'Navy bill' is that of Mr. Mallory, or the' Pacific railroad bill' of Mr. Gwin."
A noted reception of the season was given at the
mansion of the Secretary of the Interior, Mr. Guthrie's.  The elegant Mrs. McLean, wife of Judge
McLean of the Supreme Court, was a prominent attraction. Conspicuous among the belles in the dancing-room was lMiss Morgan of Kentucky, a queenly
looking girl in black velvet and pearls, who walked
through the figures like an empress. She was chaperoned by Mrs. Crittenden. Few men in the Senate
made so distinct and definite an impression upon the
public mind as Judge Douglas. A letter writer remarked: "His figure, short, stout and thick, would
have been fatal to the divinity of the Apollo Belvidere. His features are rather stern and heavy, and
if it were hinted that there was a vein of acrimony
in his character, you imagine what expression that




DOUGLAS-GENERAL CASS.            473
keen eye will take, that heavy eyebrow and that
firmly set mouth, when he is belaboring the republican party. But when he rises to speak, you forget
everything, except his ability.  Bold and independent in utterance, he has the power of thrilling his
hearers; rapidity and boldness of thought are his
inseparable attributes. He strikes on all the hard,
strong points of his subject till they ring again. His
language is always sharp, clear, strong and knotty;
never soft; seldom beautiful. With a whole storm
of unpopularity roaring around him, he sternly pursues his course; breasting the storm, combating the
surge."  Mr. Hunter, the distinguished Senator from
Virginia, "wears his garments in a fashion that shows
his abhorrence of restraint; for his clothes would be
an equally good fit for any other Senator. His neckcloth tied carelessly, leaves his throat half bare; and
a lock of hair is always falling over his forehead, or
tossed behind his ear. Though negligent, he is
never slovenly."
General Cass struck one at first sight as a man of
thoughtful and reflective habits. Amid the noise and
confusion going on around him, he would sit calm
and abstracted, listening benignantly to the business
before' the Senate, and patting his hands in unconscious approval. His looks showed no gayety, and
he appeared absorbed in his own reflections. His life,
said a lady who studied him, "substantiates in the
clearest manner two principles of the highest importance to the aspiring statesman; that the nation
eminently honors political integrity and private worth,
and that no ability destitute of moral character can




474         PIERCE'S ADMINISTRATION.
hold a permanent ascendehcy in the public mind.
Lofty in character, honoring the moralities of private
life, superior to the temptations of public gain, his
life affords a useful lesson."  An athletic figure, and
features handsome and clearly cut, belong to Senator
Toombs. His "thick black hair clusters in heavy
masses above an expansive forehead and dark eyes.
Ile takes rank as one of the best speakers in the
Senate. His extempore remarks are quick, reasoning,
and acute; and there is always an imposing vigor in
his language, tones and gestures. His voice is sharp
and high, sometimes shrill and dissonant, lacking the
round, full, mellow tone. His warmth and nervous
energy make him  a most attractive speaker. His
colleague, Judge Iverson, has a marked Scotch physiognomy, and a serious dignified expression. He is
distinguished in the Senate for sound sense and accurate judgment. His argument is clear; his reply
to objections rapid and conclusive; with little declamation, he is simple, searching, strong, seldom impassioned, always in earnest.
The most elegant party of the season was an elaborate entertainment given at the mansion of Governor Aiken, member from South Carolina, who, in the
six years passed in Washington, had contributed
largely to the entertainment of the fashionable world.
It was known that he was about going abroad to reside some years, and this was his farewell fete. Mrs.
Aiken, a graceful woman, with a form of perfect symmetry, draped in embroidered brocade which fell
around it in heavy waves of silver, and splendid in
diamonds, received the guests with her daughter, a




MRS. AIKEN'S PARTY.           475
young girl in white illusion with white lilies in her
hair, with a quiet manner and air of gentleness. The
walls of the ball-room were decorated with a profusion of evergreens and flowers, and the orchestra
platform was almost hidden by festooned branches
and laurel wreaths. One of the distinguished guests
was George Peabody, the world-famed banker; and
passing down the room with the air of a queen, with
perfect features as if carved in marble, white and
smooth as marble, too, with clear liquid eyes and
shadowy lashes, was Mrs. Douglas, wife of the Senator
from Illinois. Near her stood a sylph-like form, a lady
with low white brow and wealth of golden curls, and
sunny smile and fair cheek lightly tinted with crimson; the daughter of Major Smith, recently married
to Mr. Holt, an eminent lawyer of Louisville, Kentucky. Seated upon a lounge, with a circle constantly
around him, was a gentleman "with a superb head,
and a face that wore a beaming smile as if he loved
the whole world. He is not an old man, but there is
a patriarchal pathos in his expression and manner."
This was Mr. Henry Schoolcraft, the author of "Schoolcraft's Indian History."  He was not in the habit of
going out to entertainments, having long been helpless from paralysis of the limbs; he was at this party
in compliment to his old friend Governor Aiken. His
placid cheerfulness under affliction, the result of faith
in God, had a better influence than all the compliments his learning won from literary societies, and
the private letters from the great minds of Europe.
The season of Lent put a stop to the large dancing
parties, substituting the more unpretending social re



476        PIERCE S ADMINISTRATION.
unions. One of the most agreeable was given by Mrs.
Watterson, to enliven the retirement of her invalid
daughter, one of the most cultivated and intellectual
ornaments of society. The poet, Rufus Dawes, was
one of the guests. A lady remarked c" the repose in
his manner which seemed to infuse into everything
about him something serene and refining." The busts
of Benton and Chief-Justice Taney, by Dr. Stone, said
to combine the delicacy of Powers with the elaborate
execution of Greenough, were so much admired, that
the sculptor was commissioned by Congress to furnish a statue of John Hancock for the east wing of
the capitol. Mr. Kingman, "the Napoleon of correspondents, the Talleyrand of admiring editors and bewildered politicians,-sitting in critical judgment upon governments, dynasties, presidents and cabinets"
-was present, and also a distinguished artist, the
son of Judge Cranch of the District Court; while
among the ladies were conspicuous Miss Lea, the
daughter of the former "Indian Commissioner," and
Miss Fendall, a versatile and brilliant belle, a privileged wit in society; expected to say what no one else
could, with face c" full of a hundred laughing fancies."
Her father was a leading lawyer.
A visitor to the Senate chamber was old Mr. Bradley,
a veteran from Vermont. He was Senator for that
State in 1812. Yet he looked younger than General
Cass, who was at that time a young lawyer in Detroit.
A number of Senators crowded round him, enjoying
the jokes he dealt out with great liberality. His last
visit before this had been in General Jackson's Presidency. "I went to see the General," said he, "and




ANECDOTE OF JACKSON.          4 77
he set me down in his arm-chair, and giving me a slap
on the leg, said:'What a hearty old cock you are,
Bradley! What makes you so fat?''I don't know,
unless it is that I haven't got any office, and don't
want any.' I ain't much of an idolater, but I've kept
those pants till now that the' General gave such a
familiar slap."  The jolly and venerable Senator
weighed about two hundred and fifty.
Among the New Year's receptions the favorites
were those of Senators Slidell, Seward, Fish, Douglas
and Bright, Governor Aiken, Speaker Banks, Mr. Pennington, &c.




XVII.
BUCHANAN'S ADMINISTRATION.
The "Pilgrims" to Wheatland-Dan Dougherty-Fancy Characters
assumed by the Ladies at a Ball in Washington-Excitement in the
Federal City-Procession of Citizens to escort the President ElectThe Inauguration-The Mysterious Old Man at Capitol Hill-Sketch
of Buchanan and Breckenridge-General Lewis Cass-Other Members of the Cabinet-Arrival of Lord and Lady Napier-Miss Harriet Lane's first Reception-First Dinner Party-Lord Napier's
Hospitality-Mrs. Alexander Slidell-Mrs. Rose Greenhow-New
Regime at the White House — Superb Entertainment at Governor
Brown's-Sir William and Lady Ouseley-The Elite of Society at
Secretary Thompson's-Ladies Described —The Charming Miss Ellen
Woodbury-Lady Napier's Party-Scene in the Gallery to hear the
Vote on the Kansas Question-Lord Napier's Party to Mr. Everett
-Mr. and Mrs. Charles Eames-Mrs. Pickens.
AFTER the nomination of Mr. Buchanan at Cincinnati, Lancaster became a point of universal interest
and importance; the Mecca to which the hopes of
hungry office-seekers were turned. One day a personal friend, who wanted no office, finding him  surrounded by fifteen or twenty "Cpilgrims," apologized
for his intrusion.  "My dear sir," cried Mr. Buchanan,
"I shall be most happy at any time to see you, either
here or in Washington, the more especially as I know
you are not after an office.  This office-hunting, sir,
is a most miserable life." One Dan Dougherty, on a
mission to Wheatland, found a score of "pilgrims,"




A FANCY BALL.              479
and drawing his chair close to the President, began to
talk in an undertone. The ex-minister at the court
of St. James did not relish this breach of politeness,
and after manifesting his uneasiness in silence, rose
and said: "Mr. Dougherty, I desire you to understand, my dear sir, that I will not receive suggestions
from any man in regard to my appointments." That
single shot winged the flock. It was understood that
Mr. Buchanan's nephew was to be his private secretary; his niece doing the honors of the White House.
"The last hop of the season" was given in the parlors of Brown's hotel on the 26th February, and the
lady guests agreed to appear "in character."  Mrs.
Bocock of Virginia, wore black, sprinkled with gold
stars and a crescent on her forehead as "Night."
Miss Bennett of Mississippi, as "Morning," was in
white, with a long white veil. Mrs. Williams of Tennessee, was " The Goddess of Liberty," in silk of "red
white and blue," with a miniature banner and crimson
cap. Miss Faulkner, of Virginia, was "The Daughter
of the Regiment," looking soldier-like with her little
drum. Miss Patterson, daughter of General Patterson of Philadelphia, personated the Pompadour, in
powdered hair and antique dress. Lady Macbeth was
represented by Mrs. Hopkins of California, robed in
maroon velvet edged with fur, and wearing a gold
crown set with jewels. Miss Richardson of Kentucky was the Spanish Queen; Miss Benson the French
peasant girl; Mrs. Richardson, of Boston, the Countess of Belnore, with dashing scarlet hat and feathers.
Mrs. Burt, of Ohio, one of the most charming ladies
in Washington, appeared as Lady Byron, in orange



480       BUCHANAN'S ADMINISTRATION.
colored silk covered with lace. Miss Disney, of Ohio,
and Miss Zimmerman, of Baltimore, were attractive
in their own beauty and sparkling wit, as was Miss
Patterson of,New York. The leading characteristic
in the society of the capital was its continual change.
Personal friendships and strong social ties were formed among those temporarily thrown together during
the sessions of Congress, too often only to be severed
at the adjournment.
Some Italian republicans sent to Mr. Buchanan a
beautiful enamelled gold chronometer watch. On
the front of the case was a finished likeness of the
Emperor and Empress of Austria, painted on the blue
enamel surrounded with a richly wrought wreath.
The portrait of the Archduke Maximilian was on the
back, similarly ornamented. It was to be presented before the inauguration, after which the President could
not receive a gift from any foreign power or people.
Once more the Federal city was the scene of universal excitement. General Pierce's cabinet had their
last meeting; the President and cabinet took possession of the Vice-President's room for the night, for the
convenience of approving the bills passed by Congress; the Judges of the Supreme Court waited on
Mr. Buchanan, at his rooms at the National; Mr.
Breckenridge had arrived and was surrounded by his
friends, and President Pierce gave his last reception
to a committee of the city authorities and the citizens. At Wheatland a procession of citizens came to
escort Mr. Buchanan to the railway station. All manner of public demonstrations evinced the respect and
good wishes of the people.




THE MYSTERIOUS OLD MAN.         481
On the 4th March, an aged man, apart from the
crowd, might have been seen plodding his way towards Capitol Hill. He had witnessed many inaugurations, seated on a particular stone in the same spot;
and when the first gun announced that the ceremonies
were complete, he would always rise, and pronounce
the name of the new'President and his date in the
order of succession of Chief Magistrates; then significantly ask: "What next?" and then take up.his
line of march for his home in Virginia. It was said
this pilgrim had enjoyed the rare honor of taking by
the hand, and breaking bread with, all the Presidents
of the United States. His youth had been spent at
the seat of government. On the inauguration of Mr.
Madison in 1809, he took a somewhat remarkable part
in the events of the day. When the President retired,
the crowd rushed on, leaving the avenue nearly deserted; and then appeared, on horseback, and entirely
alone, Thomas Jefferson. The old pilgrim  pointed
out this spectacle to two Revolutionary officers —Colonel Thomas Parker and Major Butler, saying: "See;
gentlemen, how soon a great man becomes neglected,
and his services forgotten in America, when he ceases
to be the fountain of patronage and power! Whatever may be the Revolutionary patriot's and states,
man's politics now, they were of the; right sort in
1776, and led to the independence of his countryr
Honor to whom honor is due!" The Revolutionary
veterans now begged to be introduced; and the small
party falling into line, the retired Chief Magistrate
was escorted down the avenue by a trio of his political opponents. The pilgrim's stone had been removed




482       BUCHANAN'S ADMINISTRATION.
to make way for the improvement of the grounds;
but people looked for the pilgrim near the ancient
spot, and listened while the echoes of the artillery
were sounding, for his impressive words: "James
Buchanan, fifteenth President of the United States.
What next?" On that morning the President and
Vice-President elect took their seats in the carriage,
and moved amid the cheers of the crowd to the capitol. Next to them was the Liberty car, surmounted
by a pedestal on which stood the Goddess of Liberty,
magnificently attired, supported by a liberty pole
fifty feet high, and drawn by six horses. A full-rigged
ship was drawn by horses; the sailors were seen engaged in the rigging, and on deck, in their various
duties as if at sea. After Mr. Buchanan delivered
his inaugural address, and took the oath of office, he
was conducted to the executive mansion, at the door
of which the ex-President left him. The inauguration ball was given in an immense building erected
for the purpose on Judiciary Square. The list of
managers included Senators and Representatives from
almost every State in the Union, and fifteen thousand
tickets were sold.
General and Mrs. Pierce took up their temporary
abode at Governor Marcy's.
James Buchanan was a native of Pennsylvania, and
born in 1791. In 1820, he was chosen to represent
his district in Congress, continuing ten years in that
body. In 1831, Jackson tendered to him the mission
to St. Petersburg. In this post he rendered the country valuable services, and negotiated the first commercial treaty between the United States and Russia,




BUCHANAN AND HIS CABINET.        483
securing to our commerce the ports of the Baltic and
Black Seas. In 1845, he accepted the office of Secretary of State under President Polk. He was appointed minister to England by General Pierce after
the return of Mr. Lawrence. At the time he became
President he was in his sixty-fifth year. John Cabell
Breckinridge, thirty-six when nominated for VicePresident, was the only son of a distinguished memnber of the legal profession, and a prominent politician
of Kentucky. His mother was a daughter of Rev.
Samuel Smith, President of Princeton College, New
Jersey, and the grand-daughter of John Witherspoon,
one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence,
and a lineal descendant of the Scotch reformer, John
Knox. General Lewis Cass, the Secretary of State,
had been a prominent public man for half a century,
occupying posts of high distinction, and, whether as a
military man, an administrator, a diplomatist or a statesman, showing himself capable of filling the most eminent position. He was a native of New Hampshire,
but studied law at Marietta, Ohio, whither his father
had removed. In 1831 he was called by Jackson
to the War department, and after his retirement accepted the mission to France. Though seventy-five
years of age, he was younger than most men at
sixty. The Secretary of the Treasury was Howell
Cobb, of Georgia, who had been in Congress, the
faithful and efficient advocate and defender of the
rights and interests of his own section of the country.
John Buchanan Floyd, of Virginia, Secretary of War,
had long been a prominent politician in the western
part of Virginia, and had been Governor of the State.




484      - BUCHANAN'' S ADMINISTRATION.
He was connected with the first families, facetiously
called the "F. F. V's." He was a fluent speaker, and
was between forty-five and fifty. Jacob Thompson,
of Mississippi, Secretary of the Interior, was a mild
looking man, about forty. He had been a member
of the House, and an able Speaker. Aaron Venables
Brown, was a Virginian, educated in North Carolina.
He had been Governor, as well as member of Congress, andwas said to be sixty-two. It was to him
General Jackson had addressed his celebrated letter
in favor of the annexation of Texas; and Mr. Adams,
in reply to his speech, had miscalled his namle, and
dubbed him "Aaron Vail Brown."  Senator Benton
founded his famous joke on this mistake, and made
him "Aaron Vicarious Brown."  The Attorney-General was Nathan Clifford, of Maine, a portly gentleman of forty-five, who had been minister to Mexico.
Lord Napier, the new British minister, arrived in
March, accompanied by Lady Napier, four children,
their governess and tutor, and two men and two
women servants. His lordship was only thirty-eight.
He belonged to a noble Scotch family, tracing its
lineal descent as far back as the fourteenth century to
John de Napier. He had gained some literary celebrity by his "Sketches of Russia," and -was a gentleman of refined and cultivated tastes. Lady Napier
was a woman of remarkable beauty, with attractive
and engaging manners, and an amiable character.
The obsequies of Mrs. Joseph Wilson, a lady of
note in Washington society, took place in March.
Mr. Buchanan's first reception was given on the 6th
March, and was very largely attended. All the for



THE FOREIGN MINISTERS.         485
eign legations were represented, and a great number
of officers of the army and navy were present; while
the rooms presented a splendid array of beauty. Miss
Lane's first reception at the White House and the first
executive dinner party were given late in March.
When news arrived of the death of the President's
nephew, Eskridge Lane, the White House was closed
the day the despatch came.
Chevalier Hulsemann, ambassador from  Austria,
had some dispute with the master of a negro woman
whom he had hired, and the master, meeting the slave
in the street, bade her go home to his house. The
woman obeyed; and the worthy Chevalier invoked
the interposition of the State department, to defend
his right as Minister Plenipotentiary against interference with his servants! General Cass wrote him a
long letter on international law and the privileges of
ministers; a humorous thing, it was said, which afforded no small amusement in social circles. Lord
Napier's large family and intentions to give social
entertainments, required a large house; and he preferred Senator Fish's house, in the center of the city.
He was more given to hospitality than any foreign
minister who had ever lived in Washington.
For eleven years Judge Andrew Pickens Butler of
South Carolina had occupied his prominent position
in the Senate, and all who heard him speak, recall the
picturesqueness and vigor of his style. "There was
a glow, a quick, expansive feeling in his speaking,
like the outpouring of an improvisatore; in his style
of thought and utterance there was something vivid,
heroic and generous. The qualities of his heart softso




486       BUCHANAN'S ADMINISTRATION.
ened and checked the impulses of a fiery temper and
vehement will."
One of the leaders of fashion was Mrs. Alexander
Slidell. It was said of her: "Her influence in society
is remarkable.  Were she to appear attired in a tunic
and zone, the ranks of fashion would swarm with Cordelias and Agrippinas. Were she to discover an eighth
deadly sin in the vulgarity of robust health, chicken
broth would become the rage."  Mr. Buchanan tendered to F. W. Pickens of South Carolina, the post
of ambassador to Russia. His high personal character and rare abilities well fitted him for so distinguished a position. Count de Sartiges, the French
minister, was pronounced by Mr. Marcy, "a concentration of diplomatic tact."  Some wags used to say
that with him the decalogue was superseded by an
eleventh commandment: "Thou shalt not be found
out."  "Judge Wayne, of the Supreme Court, passes
along in dignified abstraction, looking like a portrait
of St. Jerome by the tender pencil of Guido."
The name of Joseph Gales is inseparably connected
with that of "The National Intelligencer." "Whether
we view this venerable chief editor of the chief organ of the'old line whig party,' as the acute critic,
the fervid politician, or the high-minded and generous man-vwe have before us one of the ablest men
of the day." Mr. Harris, the principal editor and proprietor of the "Union," was pronounced by the ladies
"a fine specimen of a Virginia gentleman." The election of Judge Nicholson as Senator from Tennessee
was heard of with pleasure in the capital, where he
had lived four years as editor of the Union. The




MRS. GREENHOWV MRS. SLIDELL, MRS. GWIN. 487
family of the Postmaster-General also made a charming addition to the society of the city. Mrs. Rose
Greenhow, who was imprisoned as a rebel during the
war, was a sister of Mrs. James Madison Cutts, and
the- aunt of Mrs. Stephen A. Douglas. A journalist
called her "a bright and shining light in those gay
secession circles which ruled the court and cabinet
under the diluted rose-water administration of Mr.
Buchanan." She was one of the brilliant coterie of
which Mrs. Slidell and Mrs. Gwin were the ruling
spirits. Mrs. Gwin was the widow Logan of Texas,
and had rich lands in that country. The grandest
masquerade ball ever given in Washington was at
Senator Gwin's about this time. Mr. Kingman appeared as President Monroe, dressed by Mr. and Mrs.
Gouverneur in the very court dress Monroe wore at
the French court as ambassador.  Miss Arabella
Young —a belle of distinction, became the wife of Albert G. Brown of Mississippi. The opening of the
new regime at the White House was very animated.
But in most of the entertainments the Southern element of vitality was sadly missed. That spirit, vivacity, hilarity, and universal abandon to the enjoyments
of the hour, which had so enlivened society, was
found wanting. Studied propriety and cold formality
ruled more decidedly; and the general expression was
solemn rather than cheerful. The cabinet receptions
of Buchanan's opening administration, it was understood, would commence much earlier than those of
their predecessors. The known wealth and elegant
style of living of the members, led to pleasing anticipations, and gorgeous preparations of costume. Mr.




488       BUCHANAN'S ADMINISTRATION.
Benton's health had improved since his severe illness;
but his evident debility caused sad forebodings.
In January, 1858, a superb entertainment, said to
be the most brilliant ever given in Washington, came
off at the residence of the IHon. A. V. Brown of Tennessee. The ball-room was lined with mirrors extending from floor to ceiling; the drawing-rooms on the
other side of the entrance-hall, richly furnished, were
adorned with flowers from the White House conservatories.  Mrs. Brown, an elegant looking woman,
wore rose-colored brocade and point lace; her daughter white tissue embroidered with moss rose-buds
with pearls and natural flowers. Among the distinguished guests was-Sir William Gore Ouseley, whose
massive head and waves of gray hair showed intellectual dignity suited to' his majestic figure. Lady
Ouseley, wearing a beautiful head-dress and diamonds,
-stood near Lady Napier, who was dressed in white,
with a head-dress of scarlet honeysuckles.'She is
winning all hearts by the sweet, womanly attributes
of her character; lending a grace to her high position by never seeming to lose sight of her happy
fireside and domestic pursuits." Dr. Charles Mackay,
the English poet, was also present. He had a slight
figure, and seemed inclined to avoid observation. A
fine-looking man, whose dress glittered with foreign
orders, was the Count de Sartiges, c" a matchless diplomat, said to coquet with our negotiations." Madame de Sartiges was attired in white embroidered
crape, with flowers of light green spray. The financial world was represented in Mr. Baring, the great
London banker.  The niece of Mr. Thompson, the




MRS. BROWN'S AND MRS. FLOYD S PARTIES. 489
Secretary of the Interior, a lady from Mississippi, attracted attention by her delicate, spiritual face. Mrs.
Slidell appeared in a Russian court dress-a crimson
velvet cap trimmed with rich lace and ostrich feathers,
and a black velvet dress, the small jacket trimmed
with gray fur.  In the center of the supper-table
stood a bouquet of immense height, of japonicas and
hot-house flowers. One ornament was a mammoth
"'nest," containing two harnessed swans driven by a
man, made of sugar and snowy white. This party
was followed by one at Governor Floyd's, of unusual
splendor.  Mrs. Floyd "was a type of the quiet,
serene excellence of woman; one of that class who
hold aching heads and bathe hot temples, and sit and
watch" beside the couch of pain. She and her daughter, Mrs. Hughes, received the brilliant company.
The central figure among the guests was the stately
one of General Scott. I-e appeared in full uniform;
his commanding mien and stern face indicating that
what he says is law; "his very step has a quarterdeck brevity and decision." A young officer beside
him was Major Calhoun, the son of the great statesman. The wife of Captain Goldsborough of the navy,
the daughter of the distinguished William Wirt, was
much noticed among the ladies. There, too, was the
thin, slight, contracted figure and the striking face,
with sharp, angular features, of William H. Seward.
Lady Ouseley's expressive face and exceeding grace
made her conspicuous; and near her could be seen
the queenly form of the wife of the Russian minister,
conversing in French. The nephew of the President
elect was noticed, and Colonel Carpenter, an eminent




4-90      BUCHANAN'S ADMINISTRATION.
lawyer from Kentucky, and a "rising man" as well as
a ripe scholar.
Mr. Jefferson-Davis was thus described by an eyewitness in the Senate chamber: "His first sentence
was the signal for profound silence and attention.
His keen eye literally blazed as he poured forth a torrent of withering sarcasm  and crushing invective.
This burst of eloquence, this torrent of oratory, sparkling and flashing, did not last more than thirty minutes. We think a cool criticism will place Mr. Davis
nearer to MIr. Clay than any speaker in the Senate.
He has much of Clay's purity and flow of style, richness of imagination, and graceful elocution."
The elite of Washington society was assembled at
an entertainment given at Secretary Thompson's.
The charming hostess had been a favorite from her
first appearance for her gracious kindliness, and the
piquant animation of her manners. There was the
usual circle of Senators' wives, diplomats, and ladies
of the cabinet; and the Secretary was seated in a
small anteroom, in vain seeking freedom from state
cares in the shape of applications for office.  The
"far-famed Benjamin Perley Poore," known as a ripe
scholar and an able writer, and noted c"for his conscientious payment of a wager on Mr. Fillmore's election-wheeling a barrel of apples a distance of thirty
miles"-could be seen, with his wife, a daughter of
Mr. Dodge. The ball given by Miss Saunders, on the
25th February, was supposed the closing one of the
season. The fair hostess wore illusion over white silk,
finished with rose-color quilling, and was aided by her
mother in receiving the guests. Lord Napier, quiet




BELLES AND CELEBRITIES.         491
and reserved as usual, was among them, with his gentle and accomplished wife; and Colonel Raslof, the
Danish minister, with expressive face and light mus,
tache; also General Hearney, the hero; and the violet-eyed Miss Lane, supported by Mr. Clingman, "the
bachelor member from North Carolina;" General
Ward, and the Texas ranger, Major McCullough; and
one of the new administration belles, the niece of
the Secretary of the'Interior; and Miss Cass, with
her striking intellectual face and melancholy eyes;
and the host's beautiful niece, with oriental eyes and
dress of point lace over canary-colored satin. A regal looking lady, with stately head crowned with raven
hair and princely port, was a daughter of Duff Green,
and a sister of Mrs. Calhoun. The new member fi'om
Charleston was noted for polish and courtly ease, "a
South Carolinian to his finger tips." A graceful
beauty with soft blue eyes and glowing complexion,
was Miss McGuire; and Mrs. Crittenden wore a superb blue moire with point lace trimmings; beside
her the wife of the Russian minister. The successor
to the lamented Butler in the Senate, was "a noblebrowed, middle-aged man, who maintains a species of
dignity of all dignities the most imposing." At political dinners he was a courted guest; and he was
marked as a gentleman of cultivated mind and extended intelligence. In speech he had the self-possession of an habitual debater. Not far from Mr. Hammond was the youthful form of one of the celebrities
of -the day —recognized by the fashionable eye; one
who had lately left the House for the Senate chamber.
He had taken his position in that body as one of its




492       BUCHANAN'S ADMINISTRATION.
rising statesmen. Thomas L. Clingman was complained of by some as a cold and calculating politician; but his benevolent acts were known to all who
knew him well.
The season of Lent, putting an end to crowded
balls, replaced them  by more agreeable reunions.
One in March at the residence of Sir William Gore
Ouseley, was remembered.  The house was'illuminated; but there was no confusion; no shouts of
wrangling coachmen outside, nor clamor within when
the Hungarian footman, in silver livery and crimsontopped boots, threw open the door. The names of
guests entering the reception-room were announced
by an English butler in a stentorian voice. Lady
Ouseley's grace, elegance and self-possession were admirable as usual. One of a cluster of gentlemen in the
drawing-room was the great orator, Mr. Everett; and
Lord Napier could be seen talking to Mr. Seward of the
beauties in the room. Not far off was seen " the mild
face of the widow of Judge Woodbury. Thorwaldsen
might have taken a model of her countenance for that
of the mother of the Maccabees in his celebrated
group."  There, too, was her daughter, elegantly
dressed without pretension, and the wife of the Senator from New Jersey; and Miss Cass, with her pale
face and stylish air; and the soft-eyed daughter of
the Attorney-General; and 1"the handsome nephew
of our Delaware Senator, of whose family it is saidBefore them the Deluge!"  There was the Mexican
minister "with his foreign face and the rich glow of
a Titian's head;" the quiet and unpretending daughter of the Secretary of War; the wife of the Secretary




-DINNER PARTIES.            493
of the Interior, surrounded by a host, to each of whom
she seemed to have something brilliant to say; and
the finished gentleman of the Virginia school, Mr.
Harris, editor of the Union; and the youthful face of
Mrs. Brown, the wife of the Postmaster-General, the
fair representative of Tennessee. The daughter of
Mrs. Brown was equally charming and lovely. Mr.
Brown was said to have seriously impaired his fortune
by his lavish hospitalities in Washington. The parties at his house were frequent and very brilliant.
Mrs. Brown played the harp admirably.
Dinners were a prominent feature of Washington
life, and the cards of invitation were sometimes issued
two weeks beforehand. They were often given, as
were evening parties, at "those brown-faced Babylons," —the hotels. An elegant party came off at the
National in March, and among the fair celebrities were
the wife of General McQueen, with a head-dress of
wondrous pearls, and the wife of Senator Brown of
Mississippi, in crimson moire, with point lace trimmings; with other distinguished persons. At President Buchanan's levee the Turkish admiral created a
sensation. He and his two attendants, one of which
was the interpreter, were dressed like other people,
except a conical red silk cap pressed down over brow
and ear; while the chief wore the crescent with a
splendid diamond star. In a little circle of gentlemen was noticed the Secretary of War, Governor
Floyd.
Mr. A. V. Brown's figure was stout and portly; his
face open and full of benevolent expression. His hair
was threaded with silver, though he was scarcely be



494       BUCHAXAN'S ADMINISTRATION.
yond middle age. The dignity and purity of his
life caused him to be respected, and his speeches indicated an elegant taste for literature as well as sound
intellect. At a reunion at his house his daughter's
music on the harp and piano formed a great attraction. The new Senator from Minnesota, Mr. Rice, and
Governor Foote were present. Lord Napier gave one
of the most elegant parties of this season.  Coroneted carriages deposited their inmates at his door,
and the pompous butler admitted many groups of distinguished citizens. The youthful belle selected by
Lady Napier to open the festivities, was the daughter
of Captain Dahlgren of the navy. The British minister gave another entertainment in May, to celebrate
his Queen's birthday. Lady Napier had a wreath of
water lilies in her hair, surmounted by a tiara of diamonds and emeralds. Lord Napier's costume glittered
with gold lace elaborately wrought, and Baron Stoeckl,
the Russian ambassador, appeared in a coat decorated
with silver lace, and a drawing-room hat ornamented
with a curled ostrich plume. The French minister
wore a cherry-colored badge across a coat that blazed
with imperial stars and orders. The stately form of
Mr. Hope, secretary of the British embassy, was seen
with left breast studded with medals, the Queen's gift
for his bravery while an officer in the Crimea. His
wife was a beautiful, gentle-looking woman. Among
the American ladies, the wife of the Senator from
Illinois was transcendent in beauty. Near at hand
was M. Bantinetti, the Sardinian minister, in full court
dress; with the wife of the distinguished member from
Virginia, Mrs. Faulkner, in blue silk with flounces of




OTHER PARTIES.            495
Mechlin lace; and the daughters in snow wreaths of
illusion. The Speaker of the House, Mr. Orr, had there
thrown off the toga of public life; and Mr. Breckinridge, called one of the best bred men in Washington,
was there; with the nephew of Lord John Russell,
speaking with fluency several languages; Mrs. Crittenden in pea-green moire with point lace bertha; Mrs.
Pringle of Charleston, in superb attire; the eminent
banker, Mr. Riggs, and General McQueen, prominent
in society as an excellent husband, with the refined
and agreeable Mr. Toucey, Secretary of the Navy,
Commodore Breese, and Mr. Lamar of Mississippi.
A soire'e musicale had been given by Lady Napier
on the first of the month. Mrs. Gwin's fancy ball excited the fashionables to the highest pitch of enthusiasm; and scarcely less was awakened by the bridal
party given at the residence of the Attorney-General,
Judge Black, in compliment to his daughter. The
celebrities of the diplomatic world, French, English,
Spanish, Danish, Russian, Austrian, &c., were seen;
and the superb Mrs. Slidell, in black velvet with bandeau of pearls, and the wife of the Secretary of the
Interior, in blue silk and Mechlin lace flounces; Mrs.
Crittenden, "with her perfect coiffure, her air of society, her easy manners," and the wife of the Secretary of the Treasury in a magnificent blue moire.
The deepest interest was excited in Washington
by the announcement that the final vote on the Kansas question would be taken; and every corner was
filled in the ladies' gallery of the Senate chamber,
with an assemblage of the beauty and intelligence
of the city. There was unusual excitement; Sen



496       BUCHNAAN'S A.DM[INISTRATION.
ators talked in knots and groups. On the southern
side numbers were gathered round a pale, ghastlylooking: person, his eye bandaged with strips of white
linen, his whole aspect denoting feebleness.  This
was Mr. Jefferson Davis, come out for the first time
since his illness, to vote on the measure. Governor
Brown, with flushed and excited face, was pacing,
with Senator Toombs, the space back of the Speaker's
chair. Mr. Hale's jovial face was overcast with sombre expression. Mr. Seward wore a look of inscrutable thought.
This most brilliant of seasons became lively as it
drew near its close. In June Lord Napier gave a delightful party to Mr. Everett, then on his way southward. Numerous celebrities, political and diplomatic,
crowded around Mrs. Crittenden, to compliment her
on the able speech of her husband in the Senate; and
there was Sir William Gore Ouseley, and the bachelor, Colonel Keitt, of South Carolina, devoted to the
ladies; and Mrs. Gwin, the wife of the Senator from
California, most elegantly dressed; and General Hearney, leading Miss Pleasanton, a great social favorite;
with Miss Saunders, and Madame Albeynerz, wife of
the Brazilian minister; and Mrs. Zulee, daughter of
Mr. Wickliffe, a former Postmaster-General; and the
Attorney-General, Judge Black, whose daughter had
so lately given her hand to her father's private secretary.
The summer heats now substituted small social
gatherings for evening receptions. A very noticeable
one was given in June by Mr. Evans, at which were
Lady Ouseley and her beautiful sister Mrs. Roosevelt




............








BUCHANAN'S LEVEE.           499
of New York, and other distinguished persons elsewhere named, with the lovely wife of Senator Dickson from Connecticut, and the stately Senator from
Texas, General Houston, whittling a heart for a
charming lady from Texas, niece of the host. The
past winter had been one of unprecedented brilliancy.
Perhaps at no time before had a cabinet included so
many examples of beauty and elegant taste, or had
a Washington season boasted so many magnificent
entertainments. To many a belle the season had
been one long triumph; to many a political dinnergiver it brought pecuniary embarrassment. As early
as the following October there was evidence of preparation for the season shortly to open.
On the 29th January, President Buchanan gave
one of the largest and most brilliant levees that had
been seen for years. Several members of the cabinet,
all the leading republican Senators and Representatives, almost the entire diplomatic corps, a large n, umber of army and navy officers, and a splendid array
of ladies were in attendance. The President looked
well, and was very talkative.  One of the new arrivals was Dr. Middleton, a young physician who had
not long before removed to Alabama, and settled
there in the practice of his profession.  For expressing his opinions he was expelled from the State with
his family, on a notice so short that he had hardly
time to pack his trunks, and was obliged to sacrifice
his horse and carriage and other property.
At a levee where Miss Benton and the daughter of
General Scott attracted much attention, the lovely
Miss Woodbury of New Hampshire was surrounded




500       BUCHANAN'S ADMINISTRATION.
by satellites.  She was called "the most beautiful
lady that graced the east room."  Another report
styles her the belle of the city, to whom " the palm is
always given;" "very handsome and very popular,
dancing well," and charming in conversation.  At
Newport and other summer resorts she was the reigning belle and the star of admiration, and always surrounded by a host of admirers. Her captivating style
of beauty was always dwelt on with rapture. On one
occasion her rich dress was described as corn-colored
silk covered with lace, with a splendid necklace and six
large bouquets which had been presented.  "Bright
and beautiful" ever, her presence was the ornament
of every assembly. "A face so refined and sweet, a
person so sylph-like, could only exist in harmony
with a lovely soul."  Her appearance as "Queen of
the Gypsies," at a fancy ball in Washington, in a picturesque dress, dispensing fortunes to her numerous
admirers, created a great sensation. One observer
wrote: "As for her grace, we have seen a whole battalion of admirers surrender their senses at witnessing
her movements in the waltz and polka."
During this administration, Mr. Charles Eames returned from Venezuela, where he had been' minister
four years, and Mrs. Eames, the daughter of Judge
Campbell of New York, became a leader in Washington society. She gave informal receptions, and made
her house exceedingly attractive as the resort of the
most distinguished men and charming women. Her
powers of mind, -nd quick perceptions, her brilliant
wit and droll way of saying clever things, delighted
every one. She had a dry quaint humor which is




MRS. PICKENS.             501
very rare, and adds a wonderful charm to conversation. After the death of her husband in 1867 she
went to Europe.
The wife of Governor Pickens of South Carolina,
was a native Virginian. Her maiden name was Lucy
iolcombe, and she was born in Lynchburg.  The
family afterwards removed to La Grange, Tenn., fifty
miles from Memphis, and subsequently to Marshall,
Texas, where she was married to Governor Pickens
immediately before his departure to St. Petersburg.
Her first cousin was Professor Holcombe of the university of Virginia.




XVIII.
BUCHANAN'S ADMINISTRATION.
The Expected Visit of the Prince of Wales —His Arrival-General
Cass introduced by Lord Lyons —The Prince at the White HouseVisits the Capital —Reception in Honor of Him-Game at Ten-pins
with Miss Lane-Diplomatic Dinner, and Evening Reception-The
Prince at the Tomb of Washington-Dinner at Lord Lyons'-The
Prince a" Heart-smasher "-Sketch of Harriet Lane-Her Marriage
-Letter of Queen Victoria-Of the Prince of Wales —Political
Excitement-Mr. Crittenden's Great Speech-His Dinner Party —
Senator Toombs and General Scott-The President's last LeveeDisplay of Martial Preparation around Washington-The Peace
Commissioners-Imposing Scene of Counting the Electoral VotesNoted Men present and their Manifestations of Interest-Douglas
and Lane-Abraham Lincoln declared President-Quiet dispersion
of the People.
THE Prince of Wales was expected to visit Mr.
Buchanan as a private gentleman, and not in royal
state. The well-bred citizens of Washington understood this, and arrangements were made accordingly.
He was to arrive by a special train, on the 3d October,
1860, and proceed directly to the executive mansion;
the company invited to meet him at dinner consisting
of the members of the cabinet and their wives, with
a few other ladies, the British minister and his first
Secretary of Legation. Another dinner-party at the
President's was to be attended by the Foreign Ministers, Senators, the Mayor of Washington, the Assistant




THE PRINCE OF WALES.          503
Secretary of State, and.their wives, besides the Prince's
suite. Lord Lyons was to give a dinner on the following day.
On the arrival of the royal train, awaited by a
thousand spectators at the station, General Cass was
introduced by Lord Lyons to the Prince, and with
the minister and the Duke of Newcastle, accompanied him to the White House.  General Cass presented His Royal Highness to the President, while
Lord Lyons introduced the suite. The gates of the
President's grounds, meanwhile, were closed against
intrusion and guarded by the police. General Cass
having been born, before the treaty of peace-was
born a British subject according to the theory of the
British constitution. Hd had been present at the
coronation of Queen Victoria.
The next day the Prince and suite visited the Capitol, and inspected the various halls, rooms, works of
art, &c. At twelve the President gave a public reception in his honor, held in the east room; Mr.
Buchanan and party standing in the center, the persons introduced entering at the left-hand door, and
leaving by the large folding-doors on the right. There
was a great crowd and rush, and many of the ladies
were magnificently dressed, though full dress was not
insisted on. The Prince wore his usual blue coat and.
gray pants, and with ungloved hands, stood on the
right of the President-Lord Lyons near him-the
royal guest bowing his head to those who were presented. Several of the ladies succeeded in shaking
hands with him. A boy four years old, a lineal descendant of Robert Bruce, dressed in Highland garb,
31




504       BUCHANAN' S ADMINISTRATION.
attracted his particular notice. In half an hour lie
was so much fatigued that the reception was closed,
to the chagrin of many who were unable to effect an
entrance. After luncheon the royal party went to
see the public buildings. Accompanied by Miss Lane
and Mrs. Thompson, the wife of the Secretary, the
Prince and his party then visited Mrs. Smith's Institute for young ladies, remaining two hours, and expressing themselves delighted with the visit, especially
to the gymnasium, where the royal guest enjoyed
several games of ten-pins with Miss Lane, laughing
heartily at the sport, and exercising himself in the
gymnastics. The society of ladies seemed the more
agreeable to him from his long deprivation of it, and
though too tired for receptions he was never weary
of going out with his charming hostess.
Mr. Buchanan's conversational powers attracted the
admiration of his English guests at the dinner. It was
rather a bore to the Prince, however, to attend the diplomatic dinner given the same evening at the President's-which was a splendid affair, though enjoyed
but indifferently by him. Miss Lane sat between him
and the Duke of Newcastle; Madame Gerolt and Mrs.
Slidell sat on either side the President. At nine Miss
Lane held her reception, for which only two or three
hundred cards were issued, as the object was to give
the favored guests an opportunity of observing the
elaborate fireworks. The Prince, with the President
and Miss Lane, appeared on the balcony, and was
heartily cheered by the crowd.
The next morning the royal party, accompanied by
the ladies of distinction, the President and Lord Lyons,




THE PRINCE AT THE TOMB OF WASHINGTON. 505
went to Mount Vernon.  Mrs. Riggs, Vice-Regent of
the Mount Vernon Association, acted as chaperone on
the grounds, and other visitors were excluded.  The
Prince stood reverently uncovered in the room where
Washington died, and all expressed gratification at
the taste and neatness displayed in the arrangements.
The marine band, in a neighboring thicket, played a
solemn dirge while the party stood before the tomb
of Washington, the Prince, tile President and the
party grouped in front, and a cloud softening the sunlight.  Royalty thus contemplated the last abode of
one pronounced a rebel and a traitor by his ancestors,
and now in rank above the kings of earth. The scene
was indeed historical. At the request of the ladies,
tile Prince planted a young horse-chestnut tree on
a little mound, in commemoration of his visit.
On their return the steamer went slowly up the
Potomac; the deck was cleared for dancing, and the
Prince danced with Miss Lane and Miss Slidell; also
with Miss Gwin, Miss Riggs and Miss Ledyard. The
party drove, on landing, to Lord Lyons' house and remained to dinner. Lord Lyons' magnificent service
of plate was displayed to advantage. In the center
of the table stood the large golden tray, with three
ornamental gold vases, which, with the porcelain
vases at the ends of the table, were filled with flowers.
On the side-boards and rich beauffets more splendid
plate appeared. On either side of the host were
Miss Lane and the Prince. Opposite sat the President, with the cabinet and diplomatic corps.
The Prince remained at the White House that
night, and on the 6th, proceeded to Acquia Creek, on




506       BUCHANAkNS ADMINISTRATION.
the way to Richmond  He took an affectionate leave
of his host and hostess, with mutual wishes for their
future health and prosperity. When the royal party
was gone, Washington again assumed its usual "recess" look, and the fashionable quarter its aspect of
solitude. Sir Henry Holland remained till Monday,
the guest of Mr. Buchanan. X The ladies all agreed
that the young Prince was a "heart-smasher," —and
many of the rough old fellows, too, were captivated.
The diplomatic corps, according to etiquette, made no
personal calls, but merely left their cards.
It will be but meager justice to Miss Lane, to give
a brief sketch of her, which may be appropriate here.
Miss Harriet Lane is the youngest child of Elliott
T. Lane and Jane Buchanan, and passed the earliest
years of her life in the village of Mercersburg, in the
midst of an intelligent and refined society. Left an
orphan at nine years of age, though independent in
fortune, she accepted a home with her uncle James,
preferring his guardianship to that of any other relative.  She attended school in Lancaster.  When
twelve years old she was sent with her'sister to a select boarding-school in Charlestown, Va., where they
remained three years. Afterwards, Harriet was sent
to the convent in Georgetown, a justly celebrated
seminary. In her visits every Saturday and Sunday
to her uncle-then Secretary of State, she met the
best society of the country.
Miss Lane was a blonde, with deep violet eyes,
golden hair, classic features and bright expression, and
a mouth of peculiar beauty. Her form had a statuesque majesty, and every movement was grace. She




SKETCH OF MISS HARRIET LANE.      507
was noted for good taste in dress. At Wheatland
she entertained her uncle's friends and foreign visitors,- with lady-like courtesy and cordiality. She was
in the habit of reading the newspapers to her uncle,
and afterwards discussing with him the political and
literary subjects of the day. Her domestic occupations were frequently interrupted by visits to the
principal cities, and in Virginia.
She first met Mr. Johnston at Bedford Springs in
1849, during the annual visit made there by herself
and Mr. Buchanan. In 1852 she accompanied her
uncle on his mission to England. Her first appearance at the Queen's drawing-room, produced a marked
impression; and on many occasions she received flattering attention from the Queen and other members
of the Royal Family. The years spent by her in England were very happy ones, and she greatly enjoyed
a tour in Europe and the months spent in Paris with
Mr. Mason's family.
Jefferson Davis, who was not friendly to Mr. Buchanan, remarked to Dr. Craven at Fortress Monroe:
"The White House under the administration of Buchanan, approached more nearly to my idea of a Republican Court, than the President's house has ever
done before since the days of Washington."  This
brilliancy was in part owing to Miss Lane.
It was a memorable occasion when the Prince of
Wales stood beside the President before the gateway
of Washington's tomb; when the great grandson of
George the Third paid homage to the memory of the
chief who took away the brightest jewel in his imperial crown; when the heir to William the Conqueror's




508           BUCHANAN'S ADMINISTRATION.
throne bowed his knee before the dust of the greatest
rebel of all time!
After the  Prince's return  to England, the  Queen
sent the following autograph letter to the President:
"WINDSOR' CASTLE, November 19th, 1860.
"My Good Friend,-Your letter of the 6th ult., has afforded me the
greatest pleasure, containing as it does, such kind expressions with regard to my son, and assuring me that the character and object of his
visit to you and to the United States, have been fully appreciated, and
that his demeanor and the feelings evinced by him have secured to him
your esteem and the general good-will of your countrymen.
"I purposely delayed the answer to your letter until I should be
able to couple with it, the announcement of the Prince of Wales' safe
return to his home. Contrary winds and stress of weather have much
retarded his arrival; but we have been fully compensated for the anxiety which this long delay has naturally caused us, by finding him in
such excellent health and spirits, and so delighted with all he has seen
and experienced in his travels.
"He can not sufficiently praise the great cordiality with which he
has been everywhere greeted in your country, and the friendly manner
in which you have received him; and whilst, as a mother, I am most
grateful for the kindness shown him, I feel impelled to express, at the
same time, how deeply I have been touched by the many demonstrations of affection personally toward myself which his presence has
called forth.
"I fully reciprocate towards your nation the feelings thus made apparent, and look upon them as forming an important link to connect
two nations of kindred origin and character, whose mutual esteem and
friendship must always have so material an influence upon their respect.
ive development and prosperity.
" The interesting and touching scene at the grave of General Washington, to which you allude, may be fitly taken as the type of our present feelings and I trust, of our future relations.
" The Prince Consort, who heartily joins in the expressions contained
in this letter, wishes to be kindly remembered to you, as we both wish
to be to Miss Lane. Believe me always your good friend,
" VICTORIA R.




MISS LANE'S MIARRIAGE.                509
The Prince of Wales sent the following note:
"JAFFA, March 29th, 1862.
"Dear Mr. Buchanan, —Permit me to request that you will accept
the accompanying portrait as a slight mark of my grateful recollection
of the hospitable reception and agreeable visit at the White House, on
the occasion of my tour in the United States.
" Believe me, that the cordial welcome which was then vouchsafed to
me by the American people and by you as their Chief, can never be effaced from my memory.
"' I venture to ask you at the same time to remember me kindly to
Miss Lane, and believe me, dear Mr. Buchanan, your very truly,
" ALBERT EDWARD."
The Prince also presented to Miss Lane a set of
engravings of the Queen and other members of the
Royal Family.  He informed Lord  Lyons that he
had asked the young lady to accept them, and would
send them through the minister from Portland. This
was done: Lord Lyons placing them in the hands of
the lady to whom they were addressed..
In January, 1866, Miss Harriet Lane was married
to Mr. Henry Elliott Johnston. After spending a
month or two in Cuba, they took up their residence
in Baltimore.
Among the queens of society wherever she went,
was the beautiful wife of Mr. Alexander Jeffrey, Rosa
Vertner Jeffrey. In her visits, brief as they were,
the impression she made was always abiding. This
lady's literary fame-as one of America's most celebrated poets and prose writers, though endearing her
to thousands who do not know her, has not lessened
the influence of her personal merits. She deserves a
more extended mention than this volume can afford.
On the last day of 1860, " The whole city is on the




510       BUCtHANAN'S ADMINISTRATION.
tiptoe o- expectation in regard to the President's
special message on South Carolina affairs. Not only
politicians, but nearly all families accustomed to attend to public matters, took an early start this morning. Breakfasts were dispatched at a comparatively
primitive hour, and with amazing celerity, and before
eleven o'clock carriages and other private vehicles
were competing with crowded omnibuses for the
quickest arrival at the capitol, while the sidewalks
of Pennsylvania avenue were densely filled with pedestrians of all ages and ranks and of both sexes,
tramping through the snow-slush to the same point.
"The President's house was besieged. all the fore-.
noon by anxious inquirers; but Mr. Buchanan, quietly.
engaged in the library with his secretaries,:was denied
to all visitors. At a quarter before twelve the cabinet
was summoned. Among the first arrivals were Secretaries Thompson and Thomas, thus putting a- stop to
the unfounded rumors respecting their resignations.
No political news being within, ear-shot of even the
detectives, the inquisitive crowd was obliged to be
content with observing the preparations by the work-.
men and servants for the New Year's day reception
on the morrow.
"Miss Lane having returned on Saturday evening
from Philadelphia, whither she had gone to attend as
first bridesmaid the marriage of her friend Miss MacAlister to M. Berghmann of the Belgian Legation,
will, by her presence, add to the attraction of the pub.
lic reception to-morrow. At eleven o'clock the diplomatic corps will be received; they and the different
attaches to the legations will appear in full court




"r THE LITTLE GIANT."         511
costume.  Next in order will come the Chief-Justice
and the associate judges of the Supreme Court; then
the officers of the army and navy in uniform, preceded by Lieutenant-General Scott and the senior
commodore now in Washington.  As the wives and
daughters of the members of the cabinet, of the Senators and Representatives, have the entree about the
same time, the blue and green parlors will present a
dazzling show of brilliant and many-colored dresses
and of distinguished men and lovely women.  The
general reception will begin at twelve. The President will receive his fellow-citizens in the blue parlor,
whence they will pass to the green parlor, into the
east room, and thence make their egress through the
great front window, between which and the pavement
a temporary bridge has been constructed."
"The feature at the capitol to-day, (January 3,1861,)
was the speech of Judge Douglas, who followed Senator Baker of Oregon. The'Little Giant' was never
in better voice, health or spirits, and his speech was
almost Websterian in its power, logic and eloquence.
The republicans do not like it, because he laid the
present troubles at the doors of the politicians of their
party; and the secessionists do not speak favorably
of it, because denied the right of secession; but the
great mass of the middle-men, the center and heart
and main dependence of the country in the hour of
danger, applaud it as one of the greatest speeches de-::
livered in the Senate since the days of Henry Clay.
The galleries were again crowded to suffocation."
A few days later: "The affairs of the country are
every day getting into a more critical conditionf




512       BUCIIANAN'S ADMINISTRATION.
Wave succeeds wave, and the ship of state labors
fearfully in an angry sea. Mr. Crittenden's glorious
speech, delivered during'the morning hour of the
Senate to-day, is the topic of eulogy in every circle
to-night. The venerable Senator had an interview
of two hours with the President on Saturday. Mr.
Toombs is willing to stand by Mr. Crittenden's proposition, and in this he speaks for the whole South.
Why will not the North meet the South on these
terms of accommodation? Can either section expect
anything better?  The universal sentiment among
the Union members of Congress and the most -influential circles in Washington is in favor of this proposition. The President elect is understood distinctly
to favor it. Here, then, is a ground on which all parties may meet and save the Union, and preserve the
country from the disasters which are about to be
brought upon it by short-sighted politicians.
"Senator Crittenden gave a dinner party at the
National to about thirty of his personal friends,
among whom were Lieutenant-General Scott, Judges
Nelson, Campbell, Clifford and Catron of the Supreme
Bench, several Senators and Representatives of all
parties, and prominent citizens of Washington. The
brother-of Major Anderson, who had returned from a
visit to Fort Sumter, was also among the guests.
" Senator Seward has had a late dinner party at his
residence to-night, at which many conservative men
of all parties were present, and not a few that were
at Senator Crittenden's dinner. There was considerable excitement among the extremists North and
South, consequent upon the belief that the two Sen



ASPECT -AND FEELING "OF THE TIMES.   513
atorial dinner parties given by Crittenden and Seward are intended to sell them out. The subject has
been discussed to-night by the strict Chicago platform
republicans, and the result will be a stern resistance
in the Senate and House against any compromise."
It was plain that a broad and satisfactory compromise
must be initiated within ten days, or the country must
choose between the recognition of an independent
southern confederacy or the suicidal folly of a civil
war, "The defeat of Crittenden's compromise creates
intense feeling. Nearly every moderate democrat declares that'now the thing is up, and we must prepare
for the worst."'
Ex-President Tyler, one of the commissioners from
Virginia to consult with the Executive on the state of
the country and advise some measures of adjustment,
arrived in January. tHe was. in precarious health.
He had an interview with the President, at which
several prominent gentlemen were present.  Mr.
Tyler was invited to sojourn at the White House..Such extracts may show the effect of the times
upon the aspect and feeling of social circles. It is
no part of the design of this book to touch on political matters.
"At a private dinner party yesterday, high words
passed between Senator Toombs and Lieutenant General Scott. -According to relations in Congressional
circles, the conversation turned on the sending of
troops to Charleston, when Senator Toombs ex.
pressed the hope that the people there would sink'The Star-of the West,' by which reinforcements were
sent. The General,, with much earnestness, asked




514       BUCHANAN'S ADMINISTRATION.
whether it was possible that he, as an American, desired such an event. Mr. Toombs replied affirmatively,
and said that those who sent the vessel there should
be sunk with her. General Scott thereupon remarked
that he was responsible for what he said, and'Mr.
Toombs responded,' You have known me for twentyfive -years, and are aware that I too am responsible.'
The matter here ended; but the subject, it is said, is
in the hands of friends."
" The President's levee was held on the 15th January, an elegant affair. Probably a similar scene
never occurred in the White House before. With
very few individual exceptions, the party that elected
Mr. Buchanan to the office he now holds, was absent.
The party that opposed him and has increased in numbers every day since it did so, was represented by its
best men now in Washington. One of the officers
of the White House remarked at the close of the
levee, that he never saw so many republicans there
before.
"Mr. Buchanan was warmly greeted by the republicans, and he conversed pleasantly with each of them.
Lieutenant General Scott was absent on business, but
several of his staff were present; also General Harney
and a number of other army and naval officers. Colonel Hayne, who comes here claiming to represent
South Carolina as a separate confederacy, approached
the President at the White House to-day; but the
President promptly disposed of him by not recognizing him as anything else than a citizen of another
State. The interview was exceedingly brief."
Mr. Buchanan gave his last levee on the-12th Feb



THE FAREWELL LEVEE.           515
ruary, 1861. It was most largely attended, and the
mnost brilliant of all during his administration; and'it was stated that five thousand were in attendance;
amid the throng the venerable heads of the Peace
Congress being prominent, and all the leaders of the
incoming administration who were in the city. Governor Chase of Ohio was there; and the representatives of the army and the navy were attired in their'
gorgeous warlike trappings.
Thee President seemed well satisfied that the end
of his office drew near, and Miss Lane never did the
honors more gracefully.  She was dressed in pure
white, and was surrounded all the evening with hosts
of friends and admirers, each of whom had a parting
word to say. The number of ladies present was unusually large, and everybody seemed to be merry.
The band played "Away down in Dixie," and closed
with " Yankee Doodle."
The display of martial preparation about Washington gave rise to rumors that caused many persons to
regard it as in a most perilous position. Yet matters
in the Federal city continued to go on pretty much
in the old style, and the scenes were similar to others
just prior to inauguration day in the more staid and
secure times of the republic. In social matters there
was little change. Fashionable "hops" were less frequent, but the deficiency was made up in dinner parties and other more private entertainments. The
occasional appearance on the avenue of small squads
of the uniformed "regulars" brought to mind the
startling stories about the seizure of the capital: but
the very air and faces of those guardians of the pub



516       BUCHANAN'S ADMINISTRATION.
lic peace tended to satisfy one that nothing was
further from them than the idea of actual service
in that locality. The jolly darkies and "gemmen"
of leisure moved carelessly about, whistling "Yankee
Doodle," "The Star Spangled Banner," and other
national melodies, as though peace had just been
declared with some hostile foreign power; and all
seemed very odd to those who came expecting to
elbow their way through fields of bayonets and
revolvers, instead of white kids, white vests and
rustling silks.
"The Peace Commissioners, after adjournment, sit
long at table, drink their wine with gusto for men who
come on such a solemn errand, and-' coerce' the best of
Havanas in great profusion, looking remarkably wise,.and saying but little when inquired of as to the probable result of their labors of love and patriotism..Last evening a large number of them, including the
Rhode Island and other peace delegations, had a jolly
old time at the house of Governor Corwin. Friend
Cheever, by the bye, the dashing representative from'Nyatt,' is assisting Mr. Corwin this winter in doing
the honors of his hospitable mansion. The throngs
about the hotels and the capitol are immense. Members are button-holed about most unmercifully, and
from the occasional sentences overheard in passing,
it is very evident that visitors here do not contemplate the destruction of the offices if they do that of
the government. Thurlow Weed is here, doing his
best to get some kind of temporary or permanent
fastening about the bodies of the border States. His
idea is that if Uncle Sam is not rich enough to keep




i:J-1.;'
d: X
_.,            Y'   t.  Ti  JP       T            t PT 4








COUNTING THE ELECTORAL VOTES.    517
house alone, he could get along, perhaps, for awhileby taking boarders."
The scene of counting the electoral votes was thus
described: "The Senators having appeared in the
hall of the House of Representatives, and the VicePresident of the United States having assumed the
chair of the Speaker, the committee appointed to
count the electoral votes, and the other officials being
properly disposed of about the Speaker's and Clerk's
desks, let us look down upon the unique and imposing
throng, and observe who compose it. Directly in
front of the gallery, and facing the Vice-President
whose duty it is to declare the result of the vote, is
Stephen A. Douglas of Illinois. He is at once the
center of all eyes as well as seated in the center.
On his, right is the Premier of the incoming administration-William  H. Seward; on his left General
Lane. Beside Seward is Senator Cameron of Pennsylvania. The familiar and easy manner of these men
towards each other is believed to be indicative of
their warm and intimate relations, political as well as
personal. Sweeping around a gentle curve, still to the
right facing the chair, are Senators Foot of Vermont,
Doolittle of Wisconsin, Grimes of Iowa; and close
beside each other are Daniel Clark of New Hampshire, and Charles Sumner of Massachusetts, looking
quietly on with apparent indifference, as if feeling
that his hour of triumph had arrived in the - election
of a republican President. Just beyond these twain
we catch a glimpse of the bushy gray head of the
unwearied Senator from Rhode Island, J. F. Simmons.
"On the left of Judge Douglas, we find, calm as a




51 8      BUCHANAN'S ADMINISTRATION.
June morning, the erudite Judge Collamer, Senator from Vermont; the brilliant-minded and silvertongued Fessenden of Maine; the industrious and
able Powell of Kentucky; the clear-headed Fitch of
Indiana; the go-ahead and self-willed Ten Eyck of
New Jersey; and beside him, in deep contemplation
profoundly wrapped, is the new Senator from'away
down East,' Morrill of Maine. Hard by, looking as
if he had not more than his share of care on his mind,
is K. S. Bingham of Michigan. In the second aisle
of seats is the patriotic, self-sacrificing, Union-loving,
and indefatigable laborer for his whole country, the
venerable Senator from Kentucky, John J. Crittenden. To the right and left we have Senator Pearce
of Maryland, Senator Andrew Johnson of Tennessee,
in confidential confab with the spirited and talented
Etheridge of the same State. There, too, is Senator
Baker of Oregon, looking a little more gray and bald
than he did twenty-five years ago, when he and Colonel John J. Hardin used to crack jokes together in
Jacksonville, Illinois. The worthy Senator looks a
little more bald than when he first came to Washington this session, having probably worn a good deal of
his hair off in rubbing through the Pacific Railroad
bill, of which great project he is a firm and steadfast
friend.  That queer, rough, but intelligent looking
man with Bahn is old Senator Wade of Ohio, who
doesn't care a pinch of snuff whether people like
what he says or not. He is a patriot who believes
he could pass the gates of St. Peter whether entitled
to or not, if he was only wrapped in the American
flag. Near Wade are Senators Bigler of Pennsylva



IMPOSING SCENE.            519
nia, and Bragg of North Carolina; the former bearing his usual steady, careful, thoughtful front. Not
far off you see the smooth face and marble brow of
Senator Wilson of Massachusetts, with the honest
features and sturdy frame of Chandler of Michigan.
You may ask:' Who is that burly-framed individual
talking to Representative Spaulding of New York?''Do you mean him with the Atlas shoulders?''No,
he can't be an Atlas man-not the "Albany Atlas," at
any rate; for those men have not that amount of
girth.''Ah, I see! That is Preston King of Nlew
York, who has as much weight in the Senate, and
probably will have as much in the next administration as any other man.' Then come before your
vision the faces of Senators Rice of Minnesota, andLatham of California. Near them sits Senator Hale
of New Hampshire, talking to Mr. Hamilton of Texas.
They pause in their conversation to hear Representative Phelps declare the vote of Illinois. It goes for
Lincoln. Douglas smiles faintly but good-humoredly,
and twitches his cane closer between his legs. Lane,
sitting beside Douglas, does not care to hear how his
State, Oregon, has gone; and proposes to leave.'No,
no, General,' says Douglas, laying his hand pleasantly
on Lane's shoulder:'You have heard how my State
has gone, now let us hear about yours.' Lane subsides into his seat, and shortly afterwards Senator
Trumnbull, who alternated with Phelps in announcing
the vote, declared that even his State-his beloved
Kentucky-had gone against her favorite son. It is
a somewhat remarkable fact that not one of the States
to which two of the Presidential and 6ne of the Vice32




520       BUCHANAN'S ADMINISTRATION.
Presidential candidates belong, cast its electoral vote
for either. Douglas lost Illinois, Breckenridge Kentucky, and Lane Oregon.
"When at twenty minutes before two o'clock, VicePresident Breckinridge declared in a distinct and audible voice, that Abraham  Lincoln, of Illinois, was
elected President of the United States for four years
from the 4th of March next, there was in that immense throng of five thousand people, a breathless
and almost deathly silence of a moment, as if every
one was expecting the occurrence of some long hidden and dreadful catastrophe.  But the stillness of
the moment was only disturbed by the clear voice of
the Vice-President, announcing the election of'Hannibal Hamlin, of Maine, as Vice-President of the
United States for four years from the 4th of March
next.'
"And then the people, without a cheer, without a
murmur of dissatisfaction; without the firing of artillery or the rattling of musketry, quietly dispersed
to their homes, thankful in their hearts that at least
one threatening ordeal in our country's history had
been passed through peacefully and happily."




XIX.
LINCOLN'S ADMINISTRATION.
Dangers ahead for the New President-Visitors to him in Springfield
-The Delegates to the Washington Conference —Farewell Party
given by Mr. and Mrs. Lincoln-Sketch of Mrs. Lincoln-Progress
to Washington-The President's Military Escort-Gorgeous Reception in New York-Ladies of Mrs. Lincoln's Party-General Doniphan and " Old Abe"-Notices of Lincoln and his Cabinet-Gorgeous Scene of the Inauguration-Attendance at the Ball-Appearance of Mrs. Lincoln and other Ladies-The first Levee a " Monster Gathering" —An English Tourist's Description of LincolnOther Prominent Men-Mr. Sumner-Mr. Stanton-Wendell Phillips-Alexander H. Stephens-Lincoln's humorous Advice to Lord
Lyons —Crowded New Year's Reception-Hon. James W. *WhiteMrs. Farragut-Hon. Judge Brewster-Financial Movements.
AMBITIOUS souls might now have looked with envy
on Abraham Lincoln; but there was danger that the
very tide of fortune that carried him to the highest
place might whelm  the inexpert steersman.  Shoals
and rocks without number were ahead, and the chances
for utter wreck were equal to those for safe landing.
Few mortals ever carried a heavier load than that
likely to rest on his shoulders. Nor could it be concealed that the burden already felt was beginning to
tax to the utmost his patience and power of endurance.
The grandeur of the mission he was called on to fulfil, as head of a nation of thirty millions, caused hini
more  anxiety  and  embarrassment than  hope  and




522        LINCOLN'S ADMINISTRATION.
exultation. Ile was now chiefly occupied in receiving visitors at his home in Springfield, Illinois, conducting negotiations for the completion of his cabinet,
and attending to his correspondence.  The general
crowd of place-seekers had to content itself with one
hour a day of audience, and they were admitted in
mass, not separately. His correspondence had so increased that his servant was met in the vestibule of
the post-office carrying a large market-basket full of
letters.'They were opened by the private secretary,
who determined their importance from the signatures,
those coming from obscure sources, and petitions for
office, being consigned to the fire.
The delegates to the Washington conference, to
assemble by invitation of Virginia, were James S.
Wadsworth, a wealthy gentleman of the western part
of the State of New York; Greene C. Bronson, an
eminent lawyer of New York; Erastus Corning, a
well-known democrat, financier, railroad manager and
politician-the member of Congress elect from the
Albany district; William M. Evarts, a New Englander
by birth but a resident of New York, where he pursued the legal profession with ability and profit; he
early linked his political influence with the republican party; David Dudley Field, a New Englander by
birth, a lawyer, and a republican politician; William
Curtis Noyes, a celebrated lawyer and republican
politician. Salmon P. Chase was one of the bright
and shining lights of the republican party. Born in
New Hampshire in 1808, he removed early to Ohio,
and finally qualified himself for the legal profession
in Washington, D. C., was admitted to the bar there




THE DELEGATES.              523
in 1829, and returned to practice in his adopted State.
He took but slight part in politics till 1841. In 1848
he was elected to the United States Senate, and became Governor of Ohio in 1855. Thomas Ewing had
been Secretary of the Treasury in the Harrison administration. He was an old-line whig. David Wilmot was the author of the celebrated proviso bearing
his name. Governor Charles S. Olden of New Jersey
was sixty-two, and in mercantile life had acquired a
fortune. Richard F. Stockton, a native of New Jersey, had risen to the highest rank in the navy, and in
1851 was elected to the United States Senate, where
he displayed splendid talents. He was possessed of
wealth. Alexander Duncan was one of the wealthiest
men in lthode Island, and father of the senior member of, the firm of bankers, Duncan, Sherman & Company. James Guthrie had been Secretary of the
Treasury in Pierce's administration. After his retirement from public political life, he devoted his time to
railroad enterprises, and to the enjoyment of social
and domestic intercourse. James B. Clay, the son of
Henry Clay, was an ex-member of Congress. Charles
Wickliff-e had been in Harrison's cabinet, and was
afterwards Governor of Kentucky. William O. Butler was one of the early settlers of Kentucky, and had
taken an active part in the Indian wars in the early
history of that State, and in the' war of 1812. John
Tyler, ex-President of the United States, was the
chairman of the Virginia delegation. He was Governor of that State in 1826, and subsequently in the
Senate, till, on a difference of opinion between General Jackson and himself, he resigned his seat and




524        LINCOLN'S ADMINISTRATION.
went into voluntary retirement, not making his appearance again in public life till 1840, when he was
nominated for Vice-President by the whig party.
After the expiration of his term of office, he lived in
retirement, and was at this time seventy-one years of
age. George W. Summers was distinguished as a literary character. Ex-Judge Brockenbrough was one of
the most distinguished jurists in Virginia, and a descendant of a high family. William C. Rives was an
eminent lawyer, who had represented Virginia in the
United States Senate. He was minister to France
under the Harrison administration. David S. Reed
was ex-Governor of North Carolina. Mr. Morehead
was ex-Governor and ex-Senator. Thomas Ruffin was
ex-Chief-Justice of the State. D. M. Barringer was
appointed minister to Spain by President Taylor.
Reverdy Johnson of Maryland was a distinguished
lawyer, and an ex-member of the United States Senate
and House of Representatives. Ile was AttorneyGeneral in the Fillmore administration. Alexander
William Doniphan of Tennessee had some celebrity
as colonel of the Tennessee regiment of volunteer
cavalry in the Mexican war. All these had been
prominent in the society of the capital.
It was arranged that the President elect and his
suite should leave Springfield on the 13th February,
the party consisting of fifteen persons. Mr. and Mrs.
Lincoln gave a party to their friends at their house in
Springfield on the 6th. Seven hundred ladies and
gentlemen, composing the political elite of the State,
and the beauty and fashion of the town and its vicinity, were present, while the host and hostess did the




SKETCH OF MRS. LINCOLN.         525
honors with dignity and affability. A splendidly ornamented sewing-machine was presented to Mrs. Lincoln.
Mrs. Lincoln is the daughter of Hon. Robert Todd,
of Lexington, KIy., who had held high places of
trust in the State, and was universally esteemed.
Clay and Crittenden were his intimate friends, and
were often entertained at his hospitable mansion.
His wife was a niece of Governor Porter of Michigan
and Pennsylvania. Their eldest daughter married a
son of Governor Edwards, the first United States
Senator from the then territory of Illinois. Mary
Todd, early bereaved of her mother, spent much time
with her sister in. Springfield. The last four years of
her school days were passed at Mde. Mentelle's select
establishment, opposite Mr. Clay's house in Lexington,
where a near relative, Margaret Wickliffe, afterwards
Mrs. William Preston, was her room-mate. The young
ladies continued intimate friends till the civil war;
and during that, Mrs. Preston often sought Mrs. Lincoln's help, to be permitted to join General Preston.
Miss Todd returned from school to Springfield, when
only seventeen, and was soon admired in a select society of gentlemen, of whom many became distinguished. Judge Douglas was one of her persistent
suitors. Abraham Lincoln paid his addresses three
months after the first meeting with the lovely and
accomplished girl, who alone of all her sex had ever
touched his heart. He had never sought any other
woman's society. He courted her devotedly for three
years, and during the twenty-two or three years of
married life that followed, he remained the fond lover
as well as tile affectionate husband and father; never




526       LINCOLN'S ADMINISTRATION.
absent from his wife more than a day without sending daily letters; sharing with her the joy of every
success; finding no happiness so great as that of the
home brightened by her.  She shared with him
the anxieties that accompanied his elevation to the
Presidency, as well as the affliction of losing his
gifted son; seeking relief from sorrow in visits to the
hospitals where her kind ministrations to the suffering soldiers might do them good, and bathing eyes
swollen with weeping when duty called her to the
drawing-room reception. Mrs. Ann S. Stephens, the
distinguished novelist, often accompanied her on these
visits of mercy, and described the scene as most interesting-to see the wife of the President walking
for hours through the wards to say cheering words
of hope and encouragement to the wounded and sick;
laying fresh flowers on their pillows, and offering
them delicacies brought from the White House. Her
carriage would be laden with flowers and baskets of
dainties, fruits, &c., for these hapless ones. In strawberry time her gardens would be stripped for their
benefit. She often assured Mrs. Stephens that but
for these humane employments, her heart would have
broken when she lost her child. No one who knew
her could doubt Mrs. Lincoln's possession of a feeling
and noble heart.
The progress of the President elect was a continued
ovation. Mrs. Lincoln, with her sons and party, joined
him at Indianapolis and the united family proceeded
through Indiana. The reception at Cincinnati was
an era in the history of the Queen City. His handshaking exertions made the poor man somewhat stiff,




PROMINENT LADIES AND GENTLEMEN.   527
and his voice was slightly hoarse from speaking in the
open air at the different stopping-places. His good
humor, however, was unimpaired, and Mrs. Lincoln
conversed in,.a lively manner with the ladies and gentlemen around her. At Albany the Governor proposed to entertain the honored guest at his own
residence, but was censured for his wish to monopolize
Mr. Lincoln. At this time Mrs. Lincoln had two married sisters on a visit at Montgomery, Ala. One was
from Kentucky, and visiting her sister who resided
at Selma, Ala. Both were secessionists, and opposed
to the government of their brother-in-law; of course
they attracted much attention, and were the toast
of Southerners.
Of Lincoln's military escort, Colonel E. V. Sumner
had served forty years in the army, and spent most
of his life in the saddle, west of the Mississippi, participating in the whole of the Mexican war. His form
was erect and his faculties were unimpaired, the result
of an active, temperate life. Ile was one of the most
efficient officers and brightest ornaments of the army.
Major D. Hunter had served also with distinction in
the Mexican war. Mrs. Hunter was a native of Illinois. The family was wealthy, and celebrated for
hospitality and, cultivated taste.  Captain George
W. Hazard was a hero of the Mexican and Florida
wars, and of many skirmishes with the Indians, being an excellent officer and a cultivated gentleman.
Captain John Pope, a son of Judge Pope, was a soldier and a gentleman of profound scientific attainments.  Those four had been detailed by the War
department to escort the President elect to Wash



528        LINCOLN'S ADMINISTRATION.
ington. Colonel Ward Hill Lamon, a lawyer of high
standing, was with the party as a personal friend to
Mr. Lincoln. Colonel E. E. Ellsworth, of United States
Zouave Cadets fame, excited general admiration for
the manner in which he managed to protect the
President from the importunities of curious crowds.
Among the civilians N. B. Judd of Chicago, a lawyer
of great ability, and an old and tried friend of Mr.
Lincoln, was prominent.  He was of middle size,
rather heavy set, with florid countenance and flowing
gray hair and beard; and was often recognized by
an unlighted cigar protruding from his lips. Judge
David Davis of Illinois, probably attracted more attention than any other member of the suite, by virtue
of his rotund figure, the humor of his broad goodnatured face, and the roars of laughter in which he
almost constantly indulged. Without his mirthfulness, the trip would have been a dull affair. He was
a distinguished republican leader of his State, an intimate friend and former partner of the President, a
man of judgment and discretion, of great talent, penetrating mind, and first-class acquirements.
The private Secretary of the President was John
George Nicolay, a German by birth but educated in
America. He was of slender figure and pale but
handsome features, wearing a mustache and goatee,
and was remarkable for intelligence, industry and
discretion. John M. Hay, assistant Secretary,-was- an
Illinois lawyer, of splendid talent and high culture,
though a very young man. His handsome form and
noble presence were said to have deeply impressed
the belles of Springfield, and awakened no little emo



THE PARTY IN NEW YORK.          529
tion among those of Washington. Dr. W. S. Wallace,
the brother-in-law of Mr. Lincoln, accompanied him
as his physician. He had lived in Springfield a quarter of a century. His manner was quiet, but his even
temper and good humor made him an agreeable companion. Lockwood M. Todd was a cousin of Mrs.
Lincoln, and had come from California to see the
family safe to Washington. George Latham was a
college chum of " Bob," and had all the gay and easy
ways of the "Prince of Rails."  Lastly, a useful member of the party was the mulatto William, who took
care of the company with untiring vigilance.
The reception of the President elect in New York
was a gorgeous one, and detailed with a great variety
of incident by the reporters. Mr. Lincoln remarked,
in favor of his lady visitors, that " their hands did not
hurt him."  Five gentlemen and six ladies formed
the party at dinner. Mrs. Hamlin had been received
at the entrance of the Astor House, and given in
charge to Mrs. Follansbee, who had the care of the
Presidential and Vice-Presidential ladies. The little
boys went to Laura Keene's theater, showing great
anxiety to be off before the nurse was ready to go,
and expressing fears that " it will be all over before we
get there, if we do not make haste."  Another time
the family visited Barnum's Museum with Mrs. Lincoln, described as "a handsome, matronly lady." She
received calls from the ladies stopping at the hotel,
in company with Mrs. Edwards and Mrs. James Watson Webb. Her dress was steel-colored silk, made
high in the neck, with trimming of box-plaited satin
ribbon, a small lace collar fastened with a diamond




530        LINCOLN'S ADMINISTRATION.
brooch, diamond ear-drops, and black chenille and
gold head-dress.  Mrs. Webb wore a dark-colored
merino, cashmere shawl and black velvet bonnet;
Mrs. Edwards a dark-colored silk, sprigged with
small bright flowers. The ladies carried bouquets,
and, Mrs. Lincoln had a small ivory fan with which
she occasionally fanned some of the gentlemen who
paid their respects to her, playfully telling them
" not to get too warm in the cause." Mrs. Webb introduced the ladies to Mrs. Lincoln, whose smile was
a pleasant and amiable one, with a frank and ladylike manner. All agreed that she would fill her
high position with ease and dignity. In two hours
about a hundred ladies were presented.  During the
evening a delegation from the Young Men's Central
Campaign Club was presented to Mrs. Lincoln by
General Webb. Mrs. Lincoln's sister and niece arrived from Boston, to accompany her to Washington
and assist in inaugurating the hospitalities. Miss
Lane had sent an invitation to Mrs. Lincoln to come
directly to the White House on her arrival-an act
of courtesy highly appreciated by all intelligent
classes.  The party, however, went to Willard's,
where a suite of five elegantly furnished rooms had
been appropriated to their use.
When the tall General Doniphan of Missouri was
introduced, "Old Abe" had to look up to catch his
eye. He immediately asked: "Is this the Doniphan
who made that splendid march across the plains, and
swept the swift Camanches before him?"  "I commanded the expedition across the plains," modestly
responded the General. "Then you have come up




DINNER AT MR. SPAULDING'S.       531
to the standard of my expectation," rejoined Mr. Lincoln. Democrats as well as republicans were pleased
with the new President; and the ladies, who at first
thought him awkward, changed their opinion and declared him "a very pleasant, sociable gentleman, and
not bad looking by any means."
A brilliant dinner party was given by Mr. Spaulding to the President and Vice-President elect on the
28th February, attended by distinguished and intellectual guests. After returning from the dinner, Mr.
and Mrs. Lincoln held a levee at Willard's, receiving
a vast number of ladies and gentlemen. The music
of the marine band brought an immense crowd to the
front, and Mr. Lincoln appeared on the balcony. Mr.
and Mrs. Hamlin also had an ovation at their hotel.
The lady had become exceedingly popular among the
lite of the metropolis.
Abraham Lincoln was born in Kentucky, in 1809.
He was educated in Indiana, and in 1830 removed to
Illinois. Elected to Congress in 1846, he served three
years, distinguishing himself by his pertinacity in
sustaining the Wilmot Proviso, and his opposition to
the Mexican War. He was first brought into publicnotice by his memorable campaign against Douglas
for the Senatorship. Hannibal Hamlin was a native
of Maine; of about the same age as Mr. Lincoln, and
a lawyer by profession. He was a Senator of the
United States, and Governor of Maine. -William H.
Seward, the Secretary of State, had a large and lucrative practice as a lawyer. Early in his public life he
had traveled in the Southern States, and was supposed
then to have formed his opinions hostile to slavery.




532        LINCOLN S ADMINISTRATION.
In some respects he was among the foremost of American statesmen, and was said to have "the best and
clearest head in America." Salmon Portland Chase,
Secretary of the Treasury, had studied. law in Washington under the celebrated William Wirt, then Attorney General. General Simon Cameron, Secretary of
War, was a native of Pennsylvania. To no single
man within her borders was Pennsylvania more indebted for her great systems of public improvement
and public instruction. Maryland was represented in
the Lincoln cabinet by Judge Montgomery Blair.
His father was Francis P. Blair, well known in General
Jackson's time. He was in the prime of life and mental vigor, and was very popular with the republicans
of the North and West. He was the son-in-law of
Levi Woodbury. His wife is a brilliant and charming
woman. Gideon Welles, of Connecticut, had been
for thirty years a leading politician. Edward Bates,
Attorney General, was a native of Virginia, and considerably advanced in years. He was a shrewd, quiet
lawyer, and was made a judge, and had been complimnented by two colleges with the honorary degree
of LL.D.
As of old, the scene of the inauguration was,a
gorgeous pageant, witnessed by assembled thousands.
The two Presidents went to the ceremony in the same
carriage, which was so closely surrounded by marshals
and cavalry as to hide it from view. No shot could
have been aimed at Mr. Lincoln through such a dense
military enclosure, and the apprehensions of a murderous plot were quieted. When he left the carriage,
Mr. Lincoln walked slowly to the threshold of the




LINCOLN'S INAUGURATION.         533
capitol, leaning on the arm of his predecessor, and
looking pale, fatigued and anxious. His vivacity appeared' to have deserted him, and the instant he
passed the portals, he hung his head and looked
fixedly upon the marble tiles. He proceeded to the
President's room on the Senate floor. The line of
procession to the portico was formed, and when they
reached the platform, Senator Baker of Oregon introduced Mr. Lincoln to the assembly. He was received with cheers. Layino down his manuscript,
he pulled from his pocket a pair of steel-bowed spectacles, and proceeded to read the address in a clear
and distinct voice. The oath of office was then administered by Chief Justice Taney, who seemed agitated with emotion. It was the eighth ceremony of
the kind at which he had officiated. The President
was then escorted to the White House, where Mr.
Buchanan took his leave of his successor, and retired
to the residence of District Attorney Ould.
General Scott had made the most extensive arrangements for the preservation of order. His officers were
continually passing to and fro, and he was heard to
utter a devout expression of thanks to the great Ruler
of events, that everything was going on peaceably.
When a portion of the crowd came to pay their respects to him, the. appearance of the gigantic form of
the Commander-in-Chief upon the porch of his house
was a signal for a burst of the wildest enthusiasm.
Standing erect in noble dignity, in a voice half choked
with emotion, he congratulated his "C friends" that one
of the great saturnalias of the nation was safely passed.
He announced himself 1" the oldest servant of this




534        LINCOLN'S ADMINISTRATION.
mighty republic, of which we are all pillars and supporters. He had labored fifty years to serve the country." At eleven that night the President and Mrs.
Lincoln, attended by a numerous suite, and followed
by Mr. and Mrs. Hamlin, entered the room of the Inauguration Ball. Five thousand were said to be present. The distinguished guests were welcomed by
enthusiastic applause, and a fearful quantity of handshaking ensued. All eyes were turned on Mrs. Lincoln, whose exquisite toilet and admirable ease and
grace, won compliments from thousands. Several of
the new Cabinet, the English, French and Russian
ambassadors, Senators, Members of Congress, the
Army, Navy, &c., were present.
In entering the room, Mrs. Lincoln followed her
husband, leaning on the arm  of the self-possessed:Senator Douglas. He reminded her of a playful prediction that her husband would be President, years
before. Some one in the crowd observed that " she
would have made a better match for Judge Douglas
than'Old Abe,'" probably because they were more
nearly of the same hight. Vice-President Hamlin
had a very dark complexion, with a pleasant face
that wore no marks of care. An eye-witness said:
"Mrs. Lincoln, always amiable and dignified, was tonight more charming than ever.  Mrs. Baker, her
sister-in-law, was escorted by Governor Yates of Illinois. Mrs. Yates wore white silk, with cherry-colored
double skirt. Mrs. Berghmann, wife of the Belgian
minister, was dressed -in white watered silk.  Mrs.
Hoover, one of the most agreeable ladies adorning
Washington society, was dressed with perfect taste




DRESSES OF PROMINENT LADIES.        535
in violet-colored brocade silk with heavy flounces;
a wreath on her head. Miss Helen Green wore the;
Union costume. Miss Alice Green was greatly admired in her dress of blue tarletan flounced to the
waist, with a bertha of Htoniton lace. Mrs. Parker, a
leader of the ton, wore stone-colored silk with black
lace; Miss Fanny Parker white tarletan with gold
trimmings. She was one of the most engaging and.
accomplished young ladies seen. Mrs. Stone, wife of
the celebrated Dr. Stone of Boston, wore white brocade silk. Mrs. Samuel A. Way of Boston, an attractive and interesting lady, was attired in a rich black
velvet, with diamonds to the value of at least eight
thousand dollars. IHer sister, Mrs. Cutting, a lovely>.
bright-eyed, graceful young widow, wore, also, plain
black velvet, with a pearl necklace and other jewels.
Mrs. Fenton had on a rich brown silk with velvet
arabesque; her Inajestic mien showed her a woman
of intellect and cultivation. Her daughter Josephine
was in pure white, and beautiful as a just-opened
lily."  This was called "The Union Ball;" but, alas!
with the true Union severed, many sad associations
were called up,  The South was unrepresented, and
many citizens of Washington were absent.
Mr. Lincoln's first levee at the White House on the
8th March, was a "monster gathering."  From eight
till half-past ten Mr. Lincoln had not one minute's rest
from shaking hands; often shaking a gentleman's with
his right hand and a lady's with his left at the same
time, to facilitate the movements of the multitude.
Colonel Lamar, one of his suite, stood on his left, and
introduced with dispatch and courtesy those who de33




536        LINCOLN'S ADMINISTRATION.
sired to be presented by name. Mrs. Lincoln, in magenta colored brocade, with diamonds, stood next to
her husband on his right, the observed of all observers;
while Dr. Blake introduced people to the Queen of,
the occasion. Distinguished among the guests were
Mr. and Mrs. Douglas. The members of the new
cabinet were all present except Mr. Seward. Charles
Sumner appeared for the first time in six years, in'
the most approved style of English evening dress.
In the gay throng, as usual, mingled the diplomatic
corps and the officers of the army and navy, their
uniforms flashing in the light of the chandeliers, and
only excelled by the brilliant costumes of the ladies,
splendid with diamonds and other precious gems.
Not only was the elite of Washington society represented; but the wealthy and fashionable circles of
nearly every State, from Maine to Louisiana, from
the Atlantic to the Pacific. One of the most admired
belles was from the Golden State, the wife of an
officer in the army.
Dicey, an English tourist, wrote: "If you take the
English stock caricature of the typical Yankee, you
have the likeness of President Lincoln.  Fancy a
man six foot high, and thin out of proportion, with
long bony arms and legs, large rugged hands, which
grasp you like a vice when shaking yours; with a
long scraggy neck, and a chest too narrow for the
great arms hanging by its side; add to this figure a
head somewhat too small for such a stature, covered
with rough, uncombable, lank, dark hair, a face furrowed, wrinkled and indented; a high, narrow forehead, and sunk deep beneath bushy eyebrows, two




THE PRESIDENT'S JOKES.         537
bright, somewhat dreamy eyes, that seem to gaze
through you without looking at you; a few irregular
blotches of black, bristly hair in the place where
beard and whiskers ought to grow; a close set, thinlipped, stern mouth, with two rows of large white
teeth, and large nose and ears. Clothe this figure in
a long, tight, ill-fitting suit of black; creased and
puckered at every salient point-and every point of
this figure is salient; put on large boots, gloves too
long for the bony fingers, and a fluffy hat, covered to
the top with puffy crape, and then add to all this an
air of strength, physical as well as moral, and a
strange look of dignity, coupled with all this grotesqueness, and you will have the impression left on
me by Abraham Lincoln."
"Some of the party began smoking; and Mr. Seward, who was present, remarked laughingly, CI have
always wondered how any man could ever get to be
President of the United States with so few vices.
The President, you know, neither drinks nor smokes.'' That,' answered the President, c is a doubtful compliment. Once, outside a stage in Illinois, a man sitting
by me offered me a cigar. I told him I had no vices.
He smoked for some time, and then grunted out, It's
my experience in life that folks who have got no vices
have plaguy few virtues."'
A gentleman present mentioned a friend who had
been expelled from New Orleans as a Unionist, made
to go of his own free will. Mr. Lincoln said, "It reminded him of a hotel-keeper in St. Louis, in cholera
time, who boasted that he had never had a death in
his hotel. No more he had; for when a guest was




'538       LINCOLN'S ADMINISTRATION.
dying, he had. him carried out in the street in his bed,
to die."  Talking of the Missouri compromise, Mr.
Lincoln'remarked: "It used to. amuse me some to
find that the slaveholders wanted more territory.because they had not room for their slaves; and yet
-they complained of not having the slave-trade because they wanted more slaves for their room!" "'Un;'less you could give the dry chuckle with which the
President's stories were repeated, and the gleam in
his eye, as, with the action habitual to him, he rubs
his hand down the side of his long leg, you fail in
conveying a true impression of their quaint humor."'
Mr. Sumner he noticed as "that great, sturdy,;English-looking figure, with the broad, massive forehead, over which the rich mass of nut-brown hair,
streaked here and there with gray, hangs loosely;
with the deep blue eyes, and the strangely winning
smile, half bright, half full of sadness. Sitting in his
place in the Senate, leaning back in his chair, with
his head stooping slightly over that great broad
chest, and his hands resting upon his crossed legs, he
looks, in dress, attitude and air, the very model of
an English country gentleman."  Mr. Stanton, Mrs.Stowe says, "is one of those men built on the lion
pattern; a man who never knew what fear was; a
man also, awful and tremendous in powers of wrath
and combativeness.'"  He was appointed Secretary of
War in January, 1862. When Mr. Lincoln announced.his selection, some one objected to Mr. Stanton's im'pulsive temper; and Lincoln replied: " Well, we may
have to treat him as they are sometimes obliged to
treat a Methodist minister I know of out West. He




ALEXANDER R. STEPRENS.         539
gets wrought up so high in his prayers and exhortations that they are obliged to put bricks in his pocket
to keep him down. We may be obliged to serve
Stanton the same:way; but I guess we'll let him jump
awhile first!"
Dicey. described Wendell Phillips; "a spare, slight
man, with scanty grayish hair, dressed in colors of almost quaker-like sonibreness.  My first impression
was that he looked like a cross between a dissenting
minister and a country doctor. The one sign of:
genius was the high, narrow forehead, and the one:
attractive feature the wonderful sweetness of his
smile."
Alexander H. Stephens, of Georgia, was known.
throughout the Union as one of the most prominent
of Southern politicians and eloquent orators. He was
born in Georgia in 1812. A stranger judging by
looks, would never have selected him as the John
Randolph of our time, more dreaded as an adversary
and more prized as an ally in a debate than any otheri
member of the House of Representatives. His voice
was sharp and shrill at the beginning of a speech, but
as he warmed with his subject, the clear tones and
vigorous sentences rolled out with a sonorousness
that found its way to every corner of the building.
He was witty, rhetorical and solid, with a dash of
keen satire that put an edge on every speech. He
possessed hosts of warm friends, and was regarded as
an enlightened Christian and a man of inflexible integrity.
Upon the- betrothal of the Prince of Wales to the
Princess Alexandra, Queen Victoria sent a letter to




540        LINCOLN'S ADMINISTRATION.
each of the European sovereigns, and also to President Lincoln, announcing the fact. Lord Lyons, her
ambassador at Washington, —(a bachelor,)-requested
an audience of Mr. Lincoln that he might present this
important document. At the time appointed he was
received at the White House, in company with Mr.
Seward.. "May it please your Excellency," said Lord
Lyons, "I hold in my hand an autograph letter from
my royal mistress, Queen Victoria, which I have been
commanded to present to your Excellency. In it she
informs your Excellency that her son, his Royal Highness the Prince of Wales, is about to contract a matrimonial alliance with her Royal Highness the Princess Alexandra of Denmark."  After continuing in
this strain for a few minutes, Lord Lyons tendered
the letter to the President and awaited his reply. It
was short, simple and expressive, and consisted simply
of the words: —" Lord Lyons, go thou and do likewise."
The New Year's reception at the Presidential mansion in 1865, was said to have been more crowded
than ever before. Among the Generals were Halleck,
Hitchcock, Hunter, Doubleday, Fessenden, Terry,
Farnsworth, Thomas and others. Admiral Smith and
Commodore Goldsborough headed the Naval Delegation. At Mrs. Lincoln's first drawing-room reception,
the elite of the metropolis was in attendance. Admiral and Mrs. Farragut were conspicuous. This lady
is a Virginian, and has the frank, easy manner and impulsive grace of the Southern ladies.
One of the most valued confidential friends of
President Lincoln, as he had been for years of most
prominent statesmen, was Judge James W., White of




?71~ i?ii!i~iii!'~ir.,~,/j!.-,
~
~i~
iiiI ~








lION. JAMES W. WHITE.         543
New York. At all hours he was received by the
President and Cabinet; his advice and aid were frequently sought, and his influence was great. This
eminent man deserves more than a cursory and feeble
tribute. Ile was of an ancient Irish family, noted
for the virtues as well as the talents of its -members.
He was a nephew of Gerald Griffin. At a navy-yard
ball given this winter, one of the stars of attraction
was the daughter of Judge White, then only seventeen. Her singing created a furore of admiration in
the select circles of that time. All the family of Judge
White had great talent for music, and their abilities
were highly cultivated. Mrs. Mack and Mrs. George
Walker of New York are still celebrities in society
for their vocal powers and for many other attractions.
In November, 1865, an interesting case was argued
before the Supreme Court at Washington, concerning
the act authorizing a bridge over the Schuylkill.
This had excited great public attention, because the
decision in the Wheeling Bridge case had been adverse to the right to bridge a navigable river. The
right of Philadelphia to bridge the Schuylkill was
maintained by Mr. Frederick Carroll Brewster, and
many thousand inhabitants of the city had a vital interest in his able argument. The case was fiercely
contested before the Supreme Court; but the argument on behalf of the city carried it against opposi
tion, and received the rare compliment of a congratulation from the bench. When the constitutionality
of the "Bounty Act" was called in question, it was
argued by the same distinguished gentleman before a
full bench. The cause involved upwards of thirty




544           LINCOLN'S ADMINISTRATION.
millions of dollars, and was said  by the court to be
c" beyond comparison the nmost important ever brought
before it since  the  formation  of the government."
When the Girard will case, involving millions of property and questions as to  charitable  uses, was before
the Supreme Court, Mr. Brewster argued it on behalf
of the city of -Philadelphia, and procured a reversal
of the judgment entered against the city. The eminent reputation of this gentleman, acknowledged to
be at the head of the Philadelphia bar, and-since his,successful management in  1856  of the famous con-'tested election case of Mann vs. Cassidy, where he
gained the cause though opposed by the flower of the
bar-regarded  as the  great legal champion  of the
~cause which cherishes the purity of the ballot-boxrenders a brief notice proper.  Born. in 1825, he graduated at the University of Pennsylvania at the age
of sixteen; studied  law  with his father, Francis E.
Brewster, and was admitted to the bar when only
nineteen. In a few years he rose to the head of the
criminal bar, being engaged in most important cases.
His defence of a medical practitioner from the charge
of homicide of a patient by mal-practice, was proof
of the old saying, "the lawyer must be master of all
sciences." 
Mr. Brewster's reputation in civil cases is equally
*His defence of Lenairs, who shot a Jersey farmer while attempting to
arrest him, was a most eloquent effort, and pronounced by the press "the.speech of the trial." Though the highest talent of the New Jersey bar was
invoked for the prosecution, the life of the accused was saved. A masterly
defence by Mr. Brewster also secured the discharge of Kirkpatrick and his
wife, in one of the longest criminal trials that ever occupied the attention of a
Philadelphia jury. His defence of Mr. Alibone, charged with conspiracy to
defraud the Pennsylvania bank, in an important and protracted trial, triumphed




*HON. F. CARROLL BREWSTER.            645
eminent.  For years prior to his elevation to the
bench he had more cases upon trial and argument
lists than any other member of the bar. In the conduct of contested election cases he was particularly
distinguished.   Several were argued before the Committee on Elections of the House of Representatives
at Washington. In important constitutional questions
his aid was eagerly sought. The constitutionality of
the act allowing soldiers to vote, of the act of Congress making greenbacks a legal tender, and others
-were all argued and gained by Mr. Brewster.
In 1862, he was elected City Solicitor by a large
vote, and re-elected in 1865 by an increased majority.
In 1866 he was nominated for Judge of the Court of
Common Pleas, and received a greater majority in his
county than the governor polled.  During the time
he has occupied the bench, his decisions have been
marked by clearness of judgment and great industry
in the examination of authorities. These decisions
of important questions have won him the highest name
as a jurist, and secured universal confidence and commendation. Some cases have bristled with perplexing points, having to be decided almost upon the
moment.  Mr. Brewster was ever known to be a
";whole-souled  Union  man," and a fearless patriot.
IIis cheerful, cordial and frank manner inspires confidence, and is peculiarly agreeable in society. He
over the popular prejudice. In other celebrated cases his labor triumphed.
Ebon Lane, who was captured by the Confederates with a New England
vessel, had been compelled by them to navigate "The Enchantress." He
did so in such a way as to get her overhauled by the United States steamer
"Albatross." It needed the skill of his distinguished counsel to rid him
of the suspicion naturally attaching to such association.




54G6       LINCOLN'S ADMINISTRATION.
has the scorn of all crooked ways innate in a high?
toned gentleman, and his rich mental culture is evident in conversation. As a speaker he is equalled by
few, and the natural advantages of a clear and finely
modulated voice, noble features and an elegant person, aid the effect of his oratory.
The financial question was one ofI so great importance during the administration of Mr. Lincoln,
that it brought into prominent positions many gentlemen who had not previously been much in the habit
of frequenting the "salons" of the capital.  Many
brought with them their wives and daughters, usually
well-educated, refined, intelligent ladies, often more
dignified and retiring than showy. Among them:
were the wife and daughter of Mr. J. U. Orvis of New
York. He had established a national bank in that
city, and managed it so successfully as to have drawn
from Secretary Chase at Providence, R. I., the remark,
that he considered the bank of which Mr. Orvis' was
president a model of what he intended those finan,
cial institutions to be. Secretary Fessenden also complimented Mr. Orvis publicly on "having done his
duty;" and an assistant Secretary of the Treasury
said that he did " as much as any banker in the
country to promote the sale of government bonds in
the time of the country's necessity."
The peculiar great financial movements of those
days can now scarcely be understood. The daily
doings of the various agents were chronicled in the
journals, and the great public heart vibrated as with
electric shocks, when reports came in of the almost
fabulous amounts transferred to the public treasury.




OPINION OF LINOOLN.           547
In one case we heard of an ordinary carriage driven
down Broadway to the Sub-Treasury, conveying four
millions of dollars in greenbacks. In another, of a
messenger carrying four hundred thousand dollars on
his back in a bag, being jostled in a crowd, and relieved by a pickpocket of eight dollars which was
in his vest pocket. Mr. Orvis has been connected
as originator, director or chief officer, with some of
the best and most successful institutions in the country. As the originator and president, from 1864 to
1867, of the Ninth National Bank of New York, which,
under his direction, furnished the government with
the money for over one-twentieth part of the entire
7-30 loan, Mr. Orvis achieved the crowning success of
his financial career. In one day he obtained a subscription exceeding five millions of dollars.
An English visitor said of Lincoln: "There are
women about whom no one ever thinks in connection
with beauty; and there are men to whom the epithet
of'gentlemanlike' or'ungentlemanlike' appears utterly incongruous; and of such is the President. Still,
there is about him a complete absence of pretension,
and an evident desire to be courteous to everybody,
which is the essence, if not the outward form, of high
breeding. There is a softness, too, about his smile,
and a sparkle of dry humor about his eye which redeem the expression of his face. You cannot look
upon his worn, bilious, anxious countenance, and believe it that of a happy man. In private life his disposition, unless report and physiognomy both err, is a
sombre one; but, coupled with this he has a rich fund
of dry, Yankee humor."




548        LINCOLN'S ADMINISTRATION.
"My first reflection, at meeting Mr. Seward, was
one of wonder that so small a man should have been
near creating a war between two great nations; a
man, I should think, little over five feet and a half in
height and some sixty years of age, with small, deli-,cate hands and feet, and a spare, wiry body, scanty,
snow-white hair, deep-sunk, clear gray eyes, a face
clean shaven, and a smooth, colorless skin. He was,in his office when I first saw him, dressed in black,
with waistcoat half-unbuttoned, one leg over the side
of his arm-chair, and a cigar stuck between his lips.
You are at your ease with him at once; there is a
frankness and bonhomie about his manner which renders it very pleasant.  A glance at that spare, -hardknit frame, and that clear, bright eye, shows that no
pleasure has been indulged in to excess throughout
his long, laborious career. Probably the most striking looking of the ministers is Mr. Chase, the Secretary of the Treasury.  His lofty, spacious forehead,
his- fresh, smooth countenance, his portly figure and
his.pleasant, kindly smile, seem to mark the philanthropist.  Mr. Blair, though a Maryland man, is the
only one of the ministers who has what we consider
the characteristic Yankee type of face —the high
cheek-bones, sallow complexion and long straight
hair. Mr. Gideon Welles, the Secretary of the Navy,
wears a long white beard and a stupendous white
wig, which cause him to look like the heavy grandfather in a genteel comedy.  Mr. Bates of Missouri,
the Attorney-General, is a lawyer, very much like
elderly legal authorities in other parts of the world."
Mrs. Lincoln seemed to have impressed foreigners




A FOREIGNER'S OPINION.         549
most favorably. A visitor said: "She performed her
part of the honors in response to the ovation paid to
her as well as to her husband, with that propriety
which consistently blends all the graces with an unreserved dignity, and is much more becoming the wife
of a republican President, than any attempt to ape the
haughty manner of European courts." Her spirit was
equal to any emergency.  Before the inauguration
some impudent South Carolinians had sent to Mrs.
Lincoln by express a scandalous painting upon canvass, representing her husband with a rope round his
neck, his feet chained, and his body covered with tar
and feathers. Many of her lady friends took up the
newspaper rumors of intended attacks upon him
while on his way to the Federal capital, and entreated
her to delay her removal to Washington till he was
safely installed in the White House. But the courageous lady met all these well-meant propositions
with scorn, and made the spirited declaration that
She would see Mr. Lincoln on to Washington, danger
or no danger! Her self-possession at all times showed
that she had readily adapted herself to the exalted
station to which she had been so strangely advanced:
from the simple social life of the little capital of
Illinois.




xx,
JOHNSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
Social Reaction from the Depression caused by the War-The fashionable Season a Carnival-Changes in Society-Andrew Johnson
and his Family-New Years, 1866-Prominent Ladies-The French
Minister's Party-Marriage of Mrs. Douglas-Madame Le Vert and
her Daughters-Opening Receptions of the next January-Mrs.
Sprague - Receptions at Chief-Justice Chase's- Celebrities and
Beauties-Hon. Alex. W. Randall-Mrs. Randall-Mrs. Grant's
Dress and Receptions-A new Feature at the White House-The
Foreign Ministers —Fashionable Gayety at its toppling Height
-Party at Admiral Lee's-Splendid Party at General Butler's-At
Senator Morgan's, &c.-Last Reception of the President-Mrs.
Dahlgren's Reunions-Mrs. Pomeroy-Mrs. Henderson-Mrs. Williams-Mrs. Gaines-Rush to the Capital.
THE long social depression and privations caused
by the war, were followed by a reaction in the first
year of the term of Andrew Johnson. Even the
shock of President Lincoln's assassination and the
mourning of the Nation, had no abiding effect in check.
ing the gayety resumed when a few months had
passed. The fashionable season of 1866 was almost
a carnival. Washington seemed to have gone wild.
The accession to society of many families suddenly
grown rich, and their display of splendor in entertainments, the unparalleled influx of visitors to the
capital, the emulation of ladies anxious to become
leaders of the ton, the general love of pleasurable




THE SOCIAL REACTION.          551
excitement consequent on a long season of terror and
distress, the exultation of victory and the joy of deliverance, the expansion of good feeling and the aspirations of ambition, all contributed to a whirl of festivity
and good cheer. The older residents complained of
the mixed character of these assemblages; averred
that the "scumn" had all risen to the top, and that
Washington had lost its pride and boast in the indiscriminate admission of "everybody" to its once brilliant circles, and its confusion of "shoddy" and parvenu elements with solid respectability. But little
heed paid the pleasure-loving crowd to such carping
strictures. The city overflowed with gayeties, and
those who liked them not were welcome to seclude
themselves.
- Andrew Johnson, it will be remembered, was born
in Raleigh, N. C., in 1808. He and his wife traveled
on foot across the mountains, and set up a business
establishment in Greenville, Tenn. He was Governor
of that State in 1853, and afterwards United States
Senator. Elected Vice-President, he succeeded to the
Presidency by the death of Abraham Lincoln in April,
1865. Mrs. Johnson was an invalid, unable to undergo
the fatigues of receiving company; the task, therefore, devolved upon her daughters, one of whomMrs. Stover —was a widow; the other-Mrs. Patterson-the wife of a Senator. On the 1st January,
1866, the gates were opened to the public at twelve,
Among the visitors were Sir Frederick Bruce, the
British minister, Mayor Wallach, and all the public
officers and diplomatics. Mr. McCulloch for the first
time opened his house for New Year festivities. Mrs.




552        JOHNSON'S ADMI-NISTRATION.
McCulloch: was assisted in receiving by her sister, Mrs.:
Meyers of New York. At the Postmaster-General's,
Mr. Dennison welcomed his guests. Mrs. Welles received with cheerful grace, assisted by Miss Mary
Morgan.  General Grant received company at his
own house in Georgetown; Mrs. Dent, the wife of
General Dent, and Mrs. Porter, wife of Colonel Horace Porter of Grant's staff, welcoming the guests.
During the season the ladies of the President's family
had receptions every Tuesday evening and every Friday from one to three, exclusive of the President's
levees. The wife of Secretary Stanton received on
Saturday evenings, as did Admiral and Mrs. Dahlgren.
Party divisions were ignored, and asperities were for —
gotten in the cordiality of social intercourse. Mrs.
Harlan, wife of the Secretary of the Interior, also
held weekly receptions. At those of Schuyler Colfax, his mother, Mrs. Mathews, and Miss Mathews, re-:
ceived the visitors. The parties at Secretary Welles'
were noted for overflowing hospitality, reviving the
memory of old times. The wife of General RamseyMiss Gales-was a celebrity. The Marquis de Montholon, French minister, who resided in the house of
Cocheron the banker, gave receptions. At one of his
regal parties the guests remained till morning, partaking of a sumptuous breakfast before the gentlemen departed to their several places of business. Some of the
ladies attended morning receptions the same day without changing the costume worn at the ball; thus keeping up festivities for twenty-four hours without interruption. In January, 1866, the distinguished Madame
Le Vert, with her lovely daughters, Miss Octavia and




BRILLIANT PARTIES.           553
Miss Cara Netta, came to spend some weeks in Washington. The city was thronged with the most notable of society from the North and West, and such a
winter had not been known for eight years. Madame Le Vert frequently attended six receptions during the day, and four or five parties the same evening.
Mrs. George W. Riggs gave a splendid party the same
evening she arrived, at which the charming lady met
numerous old friends from whom she had been separated during the gloomy years of the war. Her reception in Washington circles was most cordial. Her
daughters were admired belles wherever they appeared.
On the 23d January, General Robert Williams was
wedded to Mrs. Douglas, formerly Miss Cutts, the
widow of the noted Senator. She gave four superb
receptions after her marriage; at the first, the Right
Rev. Archbishop Spalding and Chief-Justice Chase
were present, with many distinguished persons, and
a representation from Baltimore. Mrs. Grant gave
several balls and some of the largest receptions of the
season.  Mrs. Sprague's was a matinge with dancing
and Senator Sherman's was attended by an immense
crowd.  Mrs. Sherman's quiet grace and womanly
sweetness were greatly admired.  She was assisted
by her niece, Mary Sherman. The Bachelor's Ball
called to mind the departed glories of the Washington assemblies. Party-givers were at a loss to find
an evening disengaged. At the British embassy, Lady
Elma Thurlow received with winning grace and cordiality. The French minister had married Miss Victoria Gratiot, daughter of General Gratiot, and a belle
34




554       JOHNSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
in the most distinguished circles.  Conspicuous in
society were Mrs. Charles Knapp and Governor and
Mrs. Smythe of New Hampshire.  After Lent a brilliant reception was given by General and Mrs. Grant,
at which the President and his daughters were seen,
with Sir Frederick Bruce, Mr. and Lady Elmna Thurlow, Alexander H. Stephens, etc., among the notables.
In January 1867, Mr. O. H. Browning was Secretary
of the Interior, and led the way in receptions; also
Mrs. and Miss Mathews at those of Mr. Colfax. Select
receptions were given by General Grant, with dancing, and by Mayor and Mrs. Wallach. Mrs. Sprague's
morning receptions were given at the house of her
father, Chief-Justice Chase. The engaging manners
of Mrs. Sprague gave her an ascendency in society.
Her slender form became a rich and ornamented style
of dress, and her eyes, fringed with dark lashes, lighted
her intellectual face with expression. The Senator
had lustrous eyes, with small features and long hair
rather carelessly worn. His manner was gentle, but
he was said to possess a striking element of greatness-tenacity of purpose. The presence of the ChiefJustice would grace a palace; his face expressed the
most bounteous benevolence. At this time Mrs. Alexander W. Randall, one of the brightest ornaments of
Washington society, had recently arrived from Europe
with her husband, the Postmaster-General. Mr. Charles
Eames, recognized as, in his specialty —the Admiralty
Jurisprudence-one of the most accomplished and able
members of that bar, was struck down by sudden illness and removed from this world. The best society
suffered a great -loss in the withdrawal of his widow,




NEW YEARS' RECEPTION.          555
who went to Europe. The daughterof General Morris Miller, and grand-daughter of Major-General Macomb, who had been Commander-in-Chief under John
Quincy Adams and Jackson, was this winter married
to Major-General Frank Wheaton of Rhode Island,
*Mrs. Stanbery, the wife of the Attorney-General, and
Mrs. Reverdy Johnson, were noted on many occasions.
Card receptions were given in February by the secretaries, and a party at the house of Senator Pomeroy
of Kansas, where the delighted guests enjoyed " the
wee sma' hours ayont the twal'."'On New Year's Day, 1868, the chief celebration
was, of course, at the White House. At eleven the
member of the cabinet and foreign ministers, the
Judges of the Supreme Court, Senators and Representatives in Congress and, the Judges -of the District
and Court of Claims were received, followed by army,
navy and marine officers. Then came the soldiers of
the War of 1812, and the "Oldest Inhabitants' Association of the District;" and at noon the citizens were
admitted. The black suits of statesmen and jurists,
and the splendid toilets of the ladies, were contrasted
with the court dresses of the foreign ministers and
their attaches, and the full dress uniforms of officers
in service. General Sherman's daughter wore light
buff grenadine over a green silk skirt gored and
with full train;' Mrs. Rives lavender-colored silk
trimmed with folds of black velvet, a black velvet
cloak and white bonnet; Mrs. Freeman, wife of the
Secretary of the British legation, a pearl-colored silk
and black lace shawl,' with white bonnet; Mrs. Long,
sky-blue silk trimmed with folds of white satin, with




;556       JQOINSON'S ADMINISTRATION..white cloak and bonnet; Mrs. Michler black moire
antique with white furs, and black velvet bonnet.
A'very old gentleman, Mr. Noble Hurdle, residing in
Georgetown, took President Johnson by the hand,
and said: "God bless you, Mr. President! I have
shaken the hand of every President from Washington's time, and now, Sir, I am happy to shake
yours."  The mansion of Secretary Seward was also
a central point.of interest; as was that of General
Grant, Secretary McCulloch, the Secretary of the
Navy, Postmaster-General Randall, and Chief-Justice
Sprague. Senator Reverdy Johnson, too, received a
large number of friends, entertaining them with
hospitality.
Hon. Alex. W. Randall is a native of Ames, Montgomery County, N. Y.; a son of Judge Phineas Randall, a gentleman of great legal ability.  At the
age of twenty he set off for Wisconsin, alone and
without means. He resided at Waukesha, where he
lived a score of years. His advancement being very
rapid, he became identified with the interests of the
State, and filled many important offices. His profession was that of the law. He was Governor of Wisconsin in 1857 and 1858, re-elected triumphantly by
the'citizens, who were justly proud of his fame anid
honorable character. He did honor to the chair of
state by his firm and decided discharge of duties;
and his wise and vigilant course gave entire satisfaction to his political friends. He was a most eloquent
speaker, unexcelled as an orator in debate; clear, fore
cible and conclusive. His eminent ability and ackn'owledged integrity, with his indomitable energy,




HON. ALEX. W. RANDALL.         557
fitted him for the highest responsible office. He resigned the Governorship to accept the post of United
States Minister to the Papal Court at Rome, afterwards returning to take the office of First Assistant
Postmaster-General; succeeding Mr. Dennison of Ohio
as Postmaster-General at the restoration of the Union,
and holding that office more than three years. While
First Assistant, he was married at Elmira to Miss Helen
M. Thomas, formerly of Wisconsin. This beautiful
young girl had been for many years an orphan, and
a ward of Governor Randall. Her life had been in
great part passed at school; for some time at the
Rockford Female Seminary and the Elmira College;
her education having been completed under private
professors. After she became Mrs. Randall, she resided six years in Washington, and was universally admired for beauty, grace and intellectual gifts, while
her gracious and winning manners were the true indication of a gentle and generous nature. Few, if
any ladies were ever more popular, or more beloved
by her own sex. Mrs. Randall's form is slender and
symmetrical; her features have classic regularity, and
her complexion is of that pearly paleness so exquisite
in a faultless face, varying in color with every shade
of feeling. She always had perfect taste in dress,
and her presence gave a charm to every circle. Her
loss was deeply felt and deplored when she left Washington. "She is lovely!"-was the emphatic phrase
of every tongue; and all felt as if one dearly prized
had been removed from their midst.
In January, 1868, at a reception by the ladies of
the executive mansion, among the guests were Hon.




558       JOHNSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
R. S. Spofford and his wife-Harriet Prescott Spofford.
Receptions were regularly given by General and Mrs.
Grant, and the members of the cabinet. Mr. Edward
Thornton, the newly appointed'British minister, had
the advantage over his. old bachelor predecessors, Sir
Frederick Bruce and Lord Lyons, in being a married
man. Mrs. and Miss Matthews were noted at Grant's;
also Miss Smythe of New York; the secretaries and
Postmaster-General Randall with his young wife.
Conspicuous, too, were Generals Sheridan, Hearney,
Ord, Thomas, Carr, Washburne, Dent, Badeau, McCook,
Senators Cole and Corbett, Clark Mills, a few of the
foreign ministers, and a delegation of Indian chiefs.
Sheridan's brisk and jovial manners seemed to infuse
increased animation through the company, and there.was much standing on tiptoe to catch a glimpse of
his compact little figure. Mr. Johnson introduced'into the social life of the White House a hitherto
almost unknown feature-children's parties. One
given in December was a highly enjoyed entertailment. The President's grandchildren invited over
three hundred juveniles to a party in which there
was dancing and a supper. The supper table had in
-the center a large cake inscribed with Mr. Johnson's
name, presented to him as a birthday gift, he having
just completed his sixtieth year.
At the New Year's reception immediately following, Secretary Seward introduced M. Berthemy, the
French minister, wearing the cross of the Legion and
a tri-colored sash; Baron Gerolt, the Prussian ambas.
sador, with heavy gold embroidered pocket lappets
and collar; and Blacque Bey, the Turkish minister,




THiE EIGHT OF GAYETY.         559
with his crimson fez, gold mounted scimiter and gorgeous oriental costume. Baron Stoeckl, the Russian
minister, Le Baron de Frankenstein, the Austrian
Charge d' Affaires, Baron de Wetterstedt of Sweden,
and Senior Don Colonel Domingo F. Sarmiento, of the
Argentine Republic, followed; afterwards Don Alberto
Gava, of the Chilean Legation, M. de Bille, Danish
minister, Chevalier Marcee Cerrutti, Italian, and others 
of the Spanish, Russian, and Grecian Legations; with
the Peruvian minister and Consul General of Switzerland, &c.
During January and the first ten days of February,
1869, the fashionable gayety was at its toppling
height, and improved with a rush. A thousand cards
of invitation were sent out for a bridal party by Admiral and Mrs. Lee. The bride was a daughter of
Montgomery Blair. Mrs. Blair, the daughter of Mrs.
Levi Woodbury, has been mentioned as a leader in
society. Miss Woodbury, her sister, was as much admired as ever, and even more beautiful. The Presidential receptions seemed to become more popular as
the time approached for their discontinuance. The
dresses of the ladies were pronounced less gorgeous
than last year, but were of singular variety. A few
ladies came in bonnets and shawls; and sometimes a
long cloth cloak and fur cape moved among a bevy
in airy ball costume. The most marked contrast in
colors was observable. One remarkable looking middle-aged lady, with a winning and lively grace, was
Mrs. Judge Merrick.
The party at Admiral Lee's was said to be, in point
of the number and distinction of the guests, the




560        JOHNSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
brilliancy of the scene, and the general "success," the
maost magnificent given in the capital for the last
twenty years. It was, in fact, historical, if we consider the number of generals, statesmen and scholars
present, and given in compliment to the bridal pair
— General and Mrs. Comstock. The rooms were
filled at' ten o'clock, with a gaily dressed crowd.
General Meade was there, and Senator Sherman was
for a few moments conspicuous.  The Secretaries
were seen as they passed, and the next moment lost
in the flutter of lace and silk.  The three Misses
Blair were among the bridesmaids. The procession
was continually pressing along towards the veranda,
which was enclosed and draped with flags for the
supper-room. The venerable Frank P. Blair, Sr., was
seen; a thin, fragile looking man. Generals Delafield,
Woodruff, Schofield, Eaton, Parker, Miller, Dent, Babcock, Ramsey, and many others, Secretary Welles,
Mayor Wallach, General Huimphreys, etc., all escorted
ladies, and all were intent on the banquet. It was
elegantly set out, under hanging baskets of flowers.
The greatest celebrity of the evening, was Mrs.
Levi Woodbury, the mother of Mrs. Montgomery
Blair. This lady came from Portland to spend the
winter, about the 1st of January. Still very handsome, she brought back, like a dream, recollections
of the days when, in General Jackson's second term,
she was the hostess in many a brilliant party at the
Secretary's residence. She has a highly intellectual
countenance, with graceful self-possession, and the
most winning, cordial kindness beams from her eyes
and speaks in her voice. A noted guest was Mrs.




PARTY AT GENERAL BUTLER'S.        561.
Fremont. The daughter of. Senator Benton and thewife of so distinguished a man as General Fremont,
she is always a celebrity, besides being one of the most
brilliant women in conversation in America. "How
changed she i;!" ejaculated a gentleman. But her
gray hair was a mark of honor; her locks having
changed from a dark brown to their present frosted
aspect, in three days, during the troubles of the war.
Attorney-General and Mrs. Evarts gave a card reception the same evening; many of the guests. going there first. The season was closed by a party at
General Butler's, where all of beauty, brilliancy, fashion and official dignity that Washington sends forth
to scenes of gayety, was gathered. The staircases to
the dressing-rooms on the third floor were adorned
with, pots of flowers and green- flowering vines that
wreathed the banisters. In front of every large mirror in the parlors were suspended immense baskets
of flowering and fragrant plants; also from the doors
and window cornices, while wreaths of fern and bright
autumnal leaves surrounded the pictures. The effect
was unique and splendid. Mrs. Butler.was dressed
in a "Turkey red" silk with train and panier, and low
corsage. A white point lace scarf, fastened on the
left shoulder, crossed the panier, looped under the
right arm, and half way down the skirt. Her hair
was arranged in a thick heavy coil on the top of the
head with several long ringlets floating down the back
of the -neck. At her right stood the General, and on
her left a fairy vision of loveliness-Miss Blanche
Butler; tall, graceful and elegant, with a wealth of
rippling auburn hair, having the golden sheen so much




562  JOHNSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
prized, floating down behind, and coils on the top of
the head; attired in a flowered silk robe with white
ground, with long train and high and large panier;
the underskirt, white tarletan with fluted flounces.
The ladies were generally dressed with,great magnificence. Speaker Colfax was lively; his wife was
dressed in corn-colored silk, much gored, and plain in
front, with black lace trimmings. There was also
General Ramsey, of the War department, a joviallooking gentleman with white locks, and a frequent
and pleasant smile; with General George H. Thomas,
the hero of the battle of Nashville; Generals Harvey and Heintzel, General McCook, and many others.
Mrs. McCook was pointed out as the handsomest lady
in the room-short and in misty white, with brilliant
complexion, and bright, black eyes.
The evening before there had been a brilliant party
at Senator Morgan's. Mrs. Morgan was dressed in blue
satin, with a flounce of white lace, and a handsome
lace shawl. She wore superb diamonds. The entertainment was in compliment to Mrs. Beach of Phila.
delphia, who wore a lemon-colored satin robe, trimmed
with point lace, over a white illusion skirt, with flounce
of point lace, the necklace pearls and diamonds. The
bouquets were very. numerous; baskets and globes of
flowers were in every available spot, and a wreath of
japonicas hung from the ceiling of one of the parlors,
supporting a basket full of rich, fragrant blossoms and
trailing vines.
The last Presidential evening reception but one
was crowded, though enjoyable. Mrs. Patterson received in a handsome black silk dress, low in the




FAREWELL RECEPTIONS.            663
neck, with short sleeves, puffed lace covering'tile
neck and arms.  The wife of the British minister
wore  pink silk, with train and panier, and over it a
low-necked basquine of black velvet, with very long
points and profusely trimmed with bugles.  Mrs.
Gaines, just arrived from New Orleans, radiant as
ever, wore a pearl-colored satin trimmed with black
lace, with a light dress bonnet decorated with a large
aigrette of costly diamonds.; She must have been
successful in her ejectment suits," said one. "Oh,"
replied another, "every now and then they send her
a million; as a sop to keep her- quiet!"  Mrs. Gaines
is of the medium height, slender, but well rounded
and symmetrical in form. tier brown hair is thick,
and clusters in short curls; her eyes are dark and
brilliant; her complexion is fair and clear; her features are regular, and she is beautiful beyond criticism. Full of life and animation, fresh in feeling and
impulsive, with a store of information and a mind well
cultivated, possessing rich humor and spirit, with
manners cordial, piquant and winning, she was a universal favorite in society, and had a court of gentlemen about her wherever she moved.
Mrs. Dahlgren's Saturday evening parties were continued through Lent, and were often numerously attended. Something of sadness prevailed in the receptions of the ladies of the cabinet, as the time of
parting drew near. At Mrs. Randall's last, she wore
mauve silk, becoming to her fair and delicate beauty.
Among her visitors was the wife of Senator Ramsey
of St. Paul, Minn. The luxuriant tropical style of
loveliness was exemplified in her handsome. face and




664       JOIINSON'S ADMINISTRATION.
majestic form. A tall, regal looking woman, dressed
in dark silk, was Mrs. Chandler, whose husband was
the Senator from Michigan. Mrs. Samuel C. Pomeroy,
whose husband was Senator from Kansas, is a queenly
looking woman.  Her features are massive, but
expression lights them up into splendor of beauty.
Her eyes are blue, and her complexion is fair. Mrs.
Henderson, the wife of the Senator from Missouri, is
recently married, and is a highly intelligent and cultivated woman, fluent in conversation and piquant in
wit.
Mrs. Williams-Mrs. Douglas that was-is a queen
who has abdicated; she never appears in general society. Her residence is a beautiful villa a little out
of the compact part of the city. One of the curiosities of the capitol is the model of the statue of Lincoln, for which Congress has appropriated ten thohisand dollars. There were many competitors for this
commission; the successful candidate being a young
woman, in appearance hardly over twenty, who presented her model, and bore away the palm. Her
name is Miss Vinnie Ream. She presents an instance
of the triumph of genius over difficulties, almost unprecedented in the history of art.  Sculptors who
have devoted half a lifetime to study, might be
proud of the model, which she is said to have completed after two years of labor. She is short and
slight, usually seen in her working dress, and is very
pretty, with fawn-like dark eyes.
As the 4th of March approached, the city became
full to overflowing. The hotels were crammed, and
in the evening their parlors presented a gorgeous




DRESSING AT HOTELS.           565
appearance; the elder ladies appearing in gold colored or mauve satin, with long trains, trimmed with
black lace or white point, with the costliest lace
shawls, and diamonds worth a duke's ransom. The
ladies of the South and West often dress in this
ornate style in hotels.




XXI.
GRANT'S ADIMINISTRATION.
Last Reception of the retiring President-Ladies' Dresses-Mrs.
Thomas-Inauguration Day-The Procession and Pageants-Surviving Soldiers of the War of 1812-The Ship of State-The crowded
Ball-Dresses of the Ladies-The Generals present-Too crowded
for Comfort-Incident in New Orleans-General Gaines' gallant Defense of his Wife-The partial Judge-The Advocate of" Women's
Rights "-Mrs. Gaines' Interview with her, and sensible Reproof of
her Conduct —Ol Bull again-The Cabinet-Mrs. Walworth-Mrs.
Gates-Sketch of Mrs. Grant-Her first Reception in the White
House-Dresses of the Ladies-Second Reception-Reception of
Applicants for Office, &c., at the White House-Mrs. Dix's Reception to Mr. Washburne —Mrs. Robb-Mr. Philp's Entertainment.
THE last reception of the retiring President was a
crush that rendered the ten thousand who gained admission uncomfortable, and disappointed the thousands
unable to get even to the doors. Many ladies lost
their wrappings and were compelled to return home
in aerial costume without protection from the night
air. Yet the dresses were magnificent almost beyond
precedent. The fashion prevalent of loading one skirt
above another with trimmings, and the bright contrasts of colors, were  abundantly  exhibited.   Mrs.
Patterson received in black velvet with a lace shawl.
Mrs. Ann S. Stephens wore black velvet with low
corsage and lace shawl; her daughter-in-law, white




:; j~ii:::j: ~~-~;.-:::;::::......
V" Elie i 3  r-LTMI'SS AS K-7 23 e SrWX           1f Tt,








MRS, J. T. TI. TOMAS.       569
satin, with panier looped up with heavy bands of
green satin, and a necklace of pearls. Mrs. Sprague
was dressed in blue silk with a pink tunic, and pink
convolvuluses in her hair; Mrs. Randall in white silk
with black lace trimming and pearl ornaments. The
"'New York Times" remarked: "The belle of the
evening was recognized in the person of Mrs. Joseph
T. Thomas of Philadelphia, by far the most elegantly
dressed and queenly-looking woman present." ).Indeed, at every assemblage and on every festive occasion of this season, Mrs. Thomas had been noted for
beauty, superior bearing, and her rich and tasteful
attire.
Mrs. Thomas is a native of the valley of Virginia,
and was educated in Richmond, where her piquant
and graceful manners and her excellent qualities of
heart won hosts of admirers and lasting friends. She
was married at the elegant country-seat of her uncle,
Colonel Tuley of Virginia, to Mr. J. T. Thomas, a~
member of the Philadelphia bar; they reside on Rittenhouse Square, in that city.
Mrs. Thomas possesses the peculiar charm of Southern women, a blending of grace and dignity, of cordial frankness, and winning ease. Her true hospitality
has been proved by many visitors.
The morning of the 4th of March opened with a
pouring rain, but as the time approached for the inaugural procession, the sun parted the clouds, and all
looked sunny and hopeful.  Mr. Johnson remained
till twelve at the capitol, where he was said to have
been all night signing bills. For three or four days
the streets of Washington had been full of bustle




570         GRANT'S ADMINISTRATION.
and noise of words and works, every hour bringing
hundreds of new comers, all the hotels overflowing,
and every private house crammed with visitors. The
streets through which the procession passed, were lined
with persons standing, and the windows of hotels and
shops were filled with spectators.  The President
elect passed in his carriage with his private secretary,
taking off his hat and bowing to either side contin.
ually. There was great enthusiasm when the omnibus passed bearing " the surviving soldiers of the
War of 1812," and the Ship of State well manned
and rigged,-a representative pageant that always
seems to please the populace. The colored military
turned out in force. The Inauguration Ball, or reception, took place in the new wing of the Treasury
department. Telegraphic machines were set on the
different floors to start the dancing sets;* but there
was little dancing. The committee had made insufficient provision, for the accommodation of those to
whom they sold tickets. The surging masses of humanity swelled and swayed, to the- utter destruction
of all comfort.  A larger number was brought together than since the close of the war, and crowd,
jostled crowd; vast numbers unable to proceed find-.
ing their energies taxed to effect an egress. The
President, Vice-President and their ladies had a small
reception room in another part of the building, and
were supported by Generals Sherman, Terry, Kilpatrick, Pleasanton, Webb and Thomas, with General Grant's staff, and Admirals Farragut and Goldsborough-all in full uniform. Mrs. Grant was dressed
in pearl-colored satin with long train, point lace fichu




DRESSES AT THE BALL.           571
and pearl ornaments; a wreath of leaves and flowers
on her hair; Mrs. Colfax in pink satin with an overdress of white tulle caught up with pink flowers; the
bodice a la Pompadour, and pearl ornaments. The
wife of General Griffin was there, with Mrs. and Miss
Pendleton, the last in white silk with pink satin tunic.
Mrs. Gaines wore black and gold lama with gold
fringe and embroidery, blue bonnet and diamonds.
Mrs. Viele appeared in white valenciennes lace, with
blue ribbons and roses; the wife of General Webb in
lavender silk; Miss Spinner in pink tulle;: the widow
of General Greene of North Carolina in heavy black
silk brocaded with gold, with diamonds in her headdress; Mrs. Christmas, the daughter of Mrs. Gaines,
in white alpaca with blue satin train, and gold jewelry; the daughter of Governor Ward of New Jersey,
in pale silk with point lace panier; the wife of Attorney-General Robson of New Jersey in blue velvet
with overskirt of thread lace; hair A la Marie Antoinette. Secretary McCulloch escorted a lady in puffed
tarletan, with pink satin panier, and pearls and jewelry, with natural curls. The mother-in-law of Fernando Wood appeared in rich costume and loaded
with diamonds; and one of the most elegant women
seen was Mrs. T. M. Pomeroy. Miss Phillips, a stately
blonde, accompanied Miss Barry, an elegant brunette,
wearing corn-colored silk, with a profusion of diamonds. Miss Blanche Butler wore pale pink silk
with long train, panier of point appliqude, diamonds
and pearls. Miss McCorcklin, a niece of Mrs. Morgan, Mrs. McClure, Miss Danbery, Miss Sands and
Miss Bean, a niece of the wife of Senator Harlan,
85




5 72        GRANT'S ADMINISTRATION.
were all at this time prominent in the gay circles of
Washington. The foreign ministers, as usual, came
in full court costume.
Notwithstanding such splendors, and the presence
of numerous belles and distinguished men, most of
the ladies voted the assemblage horrible as far as
comfort was concerned, and were mortified to confess
that they had been a portion of the struggling and
suffering mass. Mrs. Gaines commanded as usual, a
very large share of attention. Her devotion, patience,
heroic hopefulness and dauntless courage, her untiring defense of the right, were so admiringly appreciated by all, that it may be truly said there was not
so popular a woman in Washington. Everywhere she
was surrounded, and was stopped every moment, if
walking out, by friends delighted to recognize her.
Some of them remembered an incident that occurred
in New Orleans, when a suit was brought against her,
claiming damages for asserting her title to a certain
portion of her father's property. Mrs. Gaines appeared
in court with her counsel and her gallant and veteran
husband, "the hero of Fort Erie," who came in his uniform, wearing his sword. In the progress of the trial
the counsel fell into a wrangle with the judge, and
withdrew from the court-room; whereupon General
Gaines rose and announced to the court that he was
the husband of the defendant, and as an admitted
member of the bar of the United States, he might
claim the right to represent his wife's interests. Unfortunately, however, he had studied law in Virginia
under a very different system' of jurisprudence, and
as he felt out at sea in the courts of a civil law State




MRS. GAINES IN THE NEW ORLEANS COURT..573
he would ask that the lady defendant, who was better acquainted with the remarkable facts of her history than any one else, should be allowed to address
the jury in her case. The judge replied that the lady
had the right to argue her own case. Then the General, with that grand dignity for which he was so distinguished, led forward Mrs. Gaines, who proceeded'
to address the jury at length, reading documents bearing upon her case. The judge at length interfered,
alleging that the documents were not in evidence.
The lady still persisting, he again interfered, and a
disagreeable contest arose, in the midst of which Mrs.
Gaines charged the judge with having an interest
against her..Judge Buchanan retorted with temper,
and notified General Gaines that he was expected to
control his wife in court, where no persons were privileged.. Whereupon the stately old General arose to
his full altitude of six feet three, and assuming the
position of a commander of grenadiers, and gracefully
touching the belt of his sword, responded; "May it
please your honor, for everything that lady shall say
or do, I hold myself personally responsible in every
manner and form known to the laws of my country
or the laws of honor."
This reply and the accompanying action, and the
appearance of the General in his military garb, aroused
to a still higher pitch the Irish fire of the judge, who
quickly answered: "General Gaines, this court will
not be overawed by the military authorities."
"Rest assured, your honor, that when an attempt
of that sort is made, the sword which I wear in conformity to the regulations of the service, and out of




574         GRANT'S ADMINISTRATION.
respect to this honorable court, will be quickly
unsheathed to defend the rights and dignity of
your honor, and of all the civil tribunals of my
country."
After these explanations, peace and order were
restored, but the judge considered it his duty to note
the charge of Mrs. Gaines that he was sitting in a
case in which he was interested. He should, therefore, reduce it to an exception of recusation, and require the evidence to be produced to sustain it. It
had chanced that years before, in some proceedings
in which Mrs. Gaines' rights were involved, Judge Buchanan had made a motion for a brother lawyer who
was retained against Mrs. Gaines. This, it was decided, did not justify his recusation, and the case proceeded, and was, we believe, in the Supreme Court
at least, determined in favor of Mrs. Gaines.
This was the first appearance of Mrs. Gaines as her
own advocate in court. Afterwards she advocated her
case in and out of court to the judges, in public and
private, in every place and under all circumstances,
and in every form and with every agency and appliance, maintaining all the while her confidence, her
equanimity, her earnest zeal and unflagging energies,
and exhibiting to the world the most remarkable example of courageous devotion and resolute persistency,
which can be found in the history of the severest of
all trials of human patience. and endurance, tedious,
complicated and exciting lawsuits. This undoubted
right to claim the possession of qualities usually assigned to the sterner sex, gave point to her reproof
of the fanatical pretensions of an advocate of women's




THE " WOMEN'S RIGHTS" ADVOCATE.    575
rights, who was exhibiting herself at this time in Washington as an illustration of the superior healthfulness
of masculine attire. Twenty or thirty gentlemen in
the employ of the government were witnesses of the
curious interview between Mrs. Gaines and c" Mrs. Dr.
Walker," as the former came out of the patent office.
As she came near the "Doctor" in her peculiar dress,
Mrs. Gaines stopped, asked her name and permission
to give her a little advice, and then said:
"Please discard those pantaloons."
"Why should I do so?"
"Because it shocks the moral sentiment of the
whole people. You have no right to do this; the
world is not made alone for you or me. We are
only part and parcel of the whole.  Again, you
place my sex in a false position, in a light to be ridiculed and treated with contempt by the other sex..
Had I assumed your garb, I should have failed to obtain the sympathy of the virtuous and good throughout the country, in this great struggle for my rights.
If your object is imitation, then do not, I pray; imitate that which God has not made half so perfect as
woman; that is-man."
Mrs. Walker then said:
"Why do you dress in this gay style of lace and
flowers?"
To which Mrs. Gaines replied:
"If told that my dress was repugnant to the public
taste, I would instantly change it. I admit that it
looks more youthful than my years would warrant;
but, feeling young, I dress according to those feelings.
When I feel old, I will dress suitable to age."




576         GRANT'S ADMINISTRATION.
At this stage of the conversation Mrs. Walker
asked"Who are you, madam?"
"I am Mrs. Gaines."
"Oh! I am very happy to know you. I was not
prepared to see so young a looking woman. I expected to see a lady at least twenty years older than
you appear to be. What is the secret of your looking so much: younger than you really are?"
" This is the secret, madam: I feel kindly towards
every human being. There should not be a sorrowing heart within my knowledge if I could prevent it.
I look upon life thus: That we are placed here by
our Heavenly Father to assist each other and do
every possible good in our power. Money is merely
a loan to effect that object. Though I have had one
of the severest battles of life for nearly thirty-seven
years, persecuted and wronged out of my estate since
childhood, yet notwithstanding all this, I entertain no
feelings of revenge or bitterness towards any one, and
the world to-day looks to me as bright and beautiful
as though I had never passed through such terrible
scenes of grief and sorrow; and in all these trials I
have never for a moment ceased to entertain an everlasting, undying faith in my God, upon the principle
that so long as I was true to myself He would be true
to me. My life has been devoted to duty. A fashionable woman I never was. God has blessed mne
with a remarkable constitution, and these probably
are the reasons, madam, why they say I look so
many years younger than I really am. Now permit
me to renew my request that you change that un



DISTINGUISHED STRANGERS.        577
seemly garb. I am told that you are advocating woman's suffrage, but be assured that by your appearance
in this improper apparel; you are doing that cause
more injury than the strongest argument of its enemies. What can be the object of your wearing this
dress, madam?"
"My health."
"Your health! That can not be, for I-continually
exposed to all weathers-enjoy the best of health, and
look younger to-day than you do. Pardon me for
saying that I fear your only motive proceeds from a
vulgar love of notoriety, to which none of our sex
should ever descend."
The auditors expressed their approval of these
sentiments by repeated plaudits.
At this time Ol Bull was again in Washington, and
in great favor with lady visitors; his form still erect
and majestic, his face serene, and his spirits excellent.
At one of the hotels frequented by southerners were
the widows of two prominent generals: Mrs. Greene
of North Carolina, and Mrs. Gates of New York.
The roughest kind of prose followed the poetry of
inauguration-festivities. The White House was undergoing a renovation as to cleaning, refurnishing, &c., and
the President's family did not occupy it- for several
days, though General Grant received those who waited
on him, and there was a continual procession of strangers to see the apartments. Those on the floor above
the public reception rooms were every day filled with
eager applicants for boons from the Executive., Many
waiting for an audience were women. General Dent,
the private secretary, introduced them as fast as busi



578         GRANT'S ADMINISTRATION.
ness could be despatched.  The rooms  of the new
officials were equally besieged-and they were going through a purgatory of office-seekers.  General
Grant's cabinet seemed to be selected with reference
to the competency of the members to discharge their
duties and second the President in the course of reform and retrenchment, and the press generally expressed approbation. At present, it stands as follows:
Hamilton Fish of New  York, Secretary of State;
George S. Boutwell of Massachusetts, Secretary of
the  Treasury; John A. Rawlins of Illinois, Secretary
of War; George M. Robeson of New Jersey, Secretary of the Navy; Jacob D. Cox of Ohio, Secretary
of the Interior. Mr. Cresswell, the retiring Maryland
Senator, was named a worthy successor to Mr. Ran-dall
in the office of Postmaster-General; Mr. E. RoCkwood
Hoar, an able jurist and learned scholar, was appointed
Attorney-General. The cabinet represents different
sections of the country, and is composed of men of
culture and energetic in action.
Mrs. Chancellor Walworth (the widow of Colonel
Harden, who was killed at Buena Vista), is residing
in Washington, and one of her intimate friends, the
widow of General Gates (who served in the war of
]812, and in that of Florida and Mexico), was there
for the purpose of getting a bill passed. She is yet
young, and a handsome and elegant woman, with a
voice of rich melody, and remarkably pleasing in conversation. These two ladies got up the farewell fOte
given at the National to Senator and Mrs. Crittenden,
which has become historical.  The distinction and
beauty of Washington graced that party. Mrs. Wal



SKETCH OF MRS. GRANT.           579
worth and Mrs. Gates received the company, supported
by the Italian minister and Mr. Lovejoy. Mrs. Gates
wore white silk with cherry silk tunic and pearl ornaments; Mrs. Walworth, buff satin trimmed with lace,
and diamonds; Mrs. Crittenden, black velvet. The
Cabinet, Senate and diplomatic corps were represented, and a farewell address was delivered to Mrs.
Crittenden. That was one of the last of those chivalric festivals-as different from the taste of the present day as the baronial feasts of the middle ages from
our modern political gatherings. Now the complaint
is that the rabble have overflowed and permeated
everything social, at least where the masses can obtain access,:and vulgar self-assertion rules the day.
Four miles west of Jefferson barracks, near St.
Louis, in a house pleasantly situated on the Merrimack,' lived Colonel Frederick Dent, the father of
Mrs. Grant. He had settled in Missouri in 1815, purchasing land on Gravor's Creek, ten miles south-west
of St. Louis, and calling his estate Whitehaven. It
comprised a pretty variety of wooded hills and grassy
valleys. Julia was the fifth child and the eldest daughter.:She was comely, sprightly, amiable and lovely,
well-bred and attractive in her manners. She received
her education in St. Louis at Colonel Moreau's school.
Her father's house and estate were tended by some
thirty slaves, and the hospitality exercised was Southern in its liberality. When Grant joined his regiment in the neighborhood, he became a welcome visitor, though the family were not altogether pleased
-when the young lieutenant won the affections of the
eldest daughter.  All opposition ceased, however,




580         GRANT'S ADMINISTRATION.
after he had saved her brother's life in Mexico. On
the 22d of August, 1848, Miss Julia Dent was married to Ulysses S. Grant in St. Louis. It was a merry
wedding, and the dancing was kept up till midnight.
The company consisted of the numerous friends of
the Dent family and Grant's military comrades. General and Mrs. Grant resided at'Detroit, near the garrison, and she often made visits to her father's house.
When Mrs. Grant found the demands of society exacting, she fulfilled'them with grace, and in a spirit of
kindliness.
Ever since the close of the war she had lived in
some measure in public; had resided for years in
Washington, and mingled in its social circles, giving
many receptions and parties, and accompanying the
General on his visits to other cities where an -ovation
was tendered to him. Thus she had experience to
qualify her for a leader in the best society.- Her first
reception in the White House was given early in
April. The visitors were ushered into the red drawing-room, and presented by General Michler. Mrs.
Grant wore lavender silk trimmed with white lace;
her hair slightly crimped in front, and three heavy
curls falling over her left shoulder. Mrs. Morgan,
the wife of the Governor, stood on her right, and the
wives of Senators Morton and Williams on the left;
the latter in crimson silk trimmed with white quilling; Mrs. Morgan in purple silk. 1Mrs. Butler,- Miss
Blanche Butler, Mrs. Wilson and other noted ladies,
represented New England. General Grant was not
present on this occasion. The second weekly reception was on Tuesday from two to four, when Mrs.




RECEPTIONS- MRS. ROBB.         581
Grant took her place in the blue room, supported by
the wife of Senator Sherman, Mrs. Fish, the Secretary's wife, and Mrs. Hoar. Her dress was blue silk,
dotted ivith white roses, with an elaborate train
trimmed with white lace, displaying an underskirt
striped with lace.
In New York the wife of General Dix gave a
superb reception to Mr. Washburne, just before he,
sailed for Europe to replace General Dix as minister.
Mr. Washburne stood beside the hostess, with Mrs.
Blake, her daughter. Mr. and Mrs. James Robb were
among the distinguished guests. Mrs. Robb was Mrs.
Stanard, formerly an admired leader of society in
Richmond, Va., and since tile war a resident of Baltimore. Her beauty, grace, and winning manners, with
her Southern warmth of heart, gained hosts of friends.
She is now very popular in New York society.
A memorable entertainment was given in Washington by Franklin Philp, at the opening of his elegant
house, and most of the celebrities were present.
Mrs. Philp's dress was white moire, trimmed with
green tarletan. The walls were covered with a large
collection of water color drawings.
Mrs. Sprague's receptions continue to be a prominent feature of society in Washington during every
session.  Gifted with beauty and brilliant mental
qualities, her reign is undisputed. Her lovely sister,
Miss Chase, assists her in receiving the visitors.
The impression produced on intelligent strangers is
always worth notice. An English tourist, who visited
Washington during the civil war, said: "Washington




582         GRANT'S ADMINISTRATION.
has not the one merit of American architecture —synm
metry. The whole place looks run up in a night, like
the card-board cities which Potemkin erected to gratify the eyes of his imperial mistress on her tour
through Russia; and it is impossible to remove the
impression that, when Congress is over, the place is
taken down and packed up again till wanted. Every
body is a bird of passage at Washington." This impression was created by the number of buildings run
up for temporary occupation. "The diplomatic corps
is transitory by its very nature. The Senators, Representatives and ministers reside there for two, four,
possibly six sessions, as the case may be; the clerks,
officials and government employes are all, too, mere
lodgers. Hence none of these, with a few exceptions,
has a house of his own. The wives and families of
the married members come to Washington for a few
months or weeks during the session, and for the time
of their stay a furnished house is taken. In consequence there is little style about the mode of living.
The number of private carriages is comparatively few,
and people are afraid of bringing good horses to be
ruined by the rut-tracks that serve the purposes of
streets in Washington. Even according to the American standard there is not a decent hotel in the whole
place. Willard's and the National are two large rambling barracks, where some incredible number of beds
could be run up; but it is hard to say which is the
shabbiest internally. At all times Willard's is the house
of call for everybody who has business in Washington.
From early morning till late at night its lobbies and
passages are filled with a motley throng of all classes




COMPANY AT HOTELS.           Z583
and all nations. With the exception of the President,
there is not a statesman or a general, or man of note
of any kind in Washington, whom I have not come
across at different times, in the passages of Willard's.
Soldiers in every uniform, privates and officers thrown
together in strange confusion; congressmen and senators, army contractors and Jews; artists, newspaper
writers, tourists, prize-fighters and gamblers, were
mixed up with a nondescript crowd of men who seem
to have no business except to hang about. In the
parlors there was a like confusion. Half a dozen
rough-looking common soldiers, with their boots encased in deep layers of Virginia mud, would be dozing
with their feet hoisted on the high fenders before the
fire., At the tables gentlemen dressed in the mouldy
black, evening suits American are so partial to, would
sit all day writing letters. Knots of three or four belonging apparently to every grade of society, would
be standing about the room shaking hands constantly
with new comers, introducing everybody to everybody,
and adjourning-at intervals in a body to the bar. On
the floor above, splendidly dressed ladies were strolling at all hours about the passages, chatting with
friends, working, playing, and flirting with smartly
bedizened officers and gay young diplomatists."
"On a fine bright spring day, when the wooded
banks that line the south side of the Potomac were
in their early bloom, I have tlought the city looked
wondrously bright; but on nine days out of every
ten, the climate of Washington is simply detestable.
When it rains, the streets are sloughs of liquid mud;
even in the paved streets the stones sink into the




584         GRANT'S ADMIINISTRATION.
ground and the mud oozes up between them. In a
couple of hours from the time the rain ceases, the
same streets are enveloped in clouds of dust."
An anecdote related of Governor Randall illustrates
his unostentatious kindness. One dark evening an
old man who had been carrying the mailfrom the
post-office to the railway station, drove his horse to
the side-walk. "I say, stranger," he called out," open
that gate for me!" "Certainly," replied Mr. Randall,
and he immediately pushed the gate open.  "Now"'
said the old man, "please to shut the gate and fasten
it."  "Certainly," again answered Mr. Randall, suiting the action to the word.
Judge Mason, who was American minister to Paris,
had taken for his residence, a house in a beautiful
spot facing the Champs Elysdes. He employed a tall
colored man, of the true Virginia type, who had been
brought out fifteen or twenty years before by an
American minister, and had remained inEurope ever
since, in the service of American ambassadors, either
in Paris, St. Petersburgh or Germany.  He spoke
French, Russian and German, and his manner combined the grace and politeness of a French dancingmaster with the faithful devotion of a well-trained Virginia servant. It did his countrymen good'to see his
honest black face in the ante-chamber of Mr. Mason,
giving them an agreeable impression of home.
Mrs. Wolcott's niece, (page 30) a daughter of General Collins of Guilford, resided with her, and was
called "the belle of Connecticut," so distinguished
was she for her beauty. She married Mr. Edward
Jessup, a cousin of the General of. that name. A




SOCIAL PROSPECTS OF WASHINGTON.    585
great grand-daughter of this lady, who has inherited
some of her charms of person, is now one oft the court
circle at Stockholm. One of the court officials writing from that city to a friend in New York, says: " The
young Countess Rosen shines like a star in Stockholm
society. She is beloved by all for her grace, affability
and charm of manner, even as she attracts all by her
beauty of face and form."  She is a daughter of Mrs.
Bloomfield Moore of Philadelphia.
The social prospects of Washington have been
much discussed, and rather in a spirit of despondency.  It seems, to many, unlikely that so brilliant a period as the administration of Buchana.n, or
those of some of his predecessors, will again enliven
the capital.  They maintain that where a society
is so widely spread, it follows the law of fluids, and
becomes the shallower the more it is diffused; also,
that the intelligence, high culture, and fastidious
taste that formerly marked the best circles, have of
late given place to the mere love of display, pride of
wealth and sensuous apprehension, that form the claim
of" the newly enriched" or elevated, to superior consideration.  There is no doubt of the tendency of
society at the present time to this kind of deterioration. The example of New York and other commercial cities shows the danger. It may not be long,
some aver, before Washington, too, may be an arena
merely for the exhibition of vulgar wealth, and extravagance in dress and entertainments may become a
test of aristocratic refinement.  There are a few conservative elements at work, however, and the leaven
may suffice to prevent the whole lump from settling




586         GRANT'S ADMINISTRATION.
into a sluggish mass. The influence of foreigners has a
beneficial effect; and when the Union is fully restored,
and the South represented as it should be, completely
and harmoniously, the balance will be so preserved as
to lessen the peril now dreaded. There has never
been in Southern communities, a tendency to undue
honoring of riches and empty show; the ancient English prejudice in favor of blood, remains, and among
the old families, a gentle bearing and careful mental
cultivation are held essential to the breeding of those
who lead in the highest sphere. An infusion of this
spirit will do good. And how know we what may be
done by the influence of individuals! If the days of
Clay, Webster, Calhoun and Mrs. Madison are gone
by-are we certain that we ne'er shall look upon
their like again! May we not hope that other royal
intellects may lift the sceptre now idle or profaned;
that other gracious and benign creatures may teach
women their true power! that the society of our capital-may again be what it has been, a nursery for the
noble qualities of our nature, and for the training of
gifted minds, where greatness mav be achieved without the sacrifice of principle!